Youth Policy Engagement

In addition our research, content creation, and digital storytelling work, the GYSRL coordinates and supports youth engagement in policy settings. Our Core Members at Penn State, Intergenerational Council, Youth Advisors, and Lab Affiliates, have various engagements supporting youth-centered policy in the climate change and sustainable development space. Our Lab community has a presence in processes including the U.N. climate negotiations, UNESCO processes, and United Nations sustainable development policymaking. Our community also offers timely commentary on these processes through our Blog and Social Media platforms.

Policy Work

Penn State UNA-USA x GYSRL COP 29 Events

In partnership with the Penn State chapter of the United Nations Association of the USA, our Lab has co-coordinated events in advance of COP 29 that have engaged undergraduate students in learning about the international climate policy process. During COP 29, our Lab will also be hosting opportunities for students to virtually “track” key topics in the negotiations and share via multimedia storytelling approaches. We will also be hosting post COP 29 events to reflect on the negotiations and continue our student-centered outreach.

The GYSRL at COP 28

The GYSRL community had a substantial presence at COP 28 that took place in Dubai, UAE in 2023. Our community planned and partnered on side events on the ground at COP, offered incisive and insightful youth-centered commentary on the negotiations through our blog and social media platforms, and engaged in other public writing and speaking to engage broader audiences in the climate negotiations.