Jointly proposed by youth representatives from ASEAN countries and China, at the ASEAN-China Environmental Cooperation Forum 2021 on October 25, 2021.
We, the youth from ASEAN countries and China, having met in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, in person and remotely, on 24 and 25 October 2021, on the occasion of ASEAN-China Environmental Cooperation Forum 2021.
Recalling the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement adopted under the Convention, we emphasize that there is one Planet Earth and it is our shared responsibility to work towards ecological and environmental protection. All countries need to make concerted efforts to foster green, low-carbon, and sustainable development.
Reaffirming that under the framework of the Convention on Biological Diversity, the mega-diverse nature and the rich biodiversity in ASEAN key ecosystems in the region include mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrass beds. Recognizing that biodiversity in the region has been seriously threatened due to human activities.
Noting that both ASEAN countries and China are developing countries, facing similar challenges in the field of sustainable development, such as environmental pollution and ecological degradation. Acknowledging that to tackle the challenges, ASEAN countries and China have adopted a series of effective policies in combination with various measures, and made remarkable progress in promoting green and sustainable development, to build a harmonious and resilient community with the people at the center.
Emphasizing that biodiversity and ecosystems support all forms of life on Earth and underpin our human and planetary health and well-being, economic growth, and sustainable development.
Noting that climate change is one of the major challenges of our time, and all countries, particularly developing countries, are vulnerable to its adverse impacts. Climate change can be addressed through climate actions guided by the principle of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities, in light of different national circumstances.
Noting that there are existing standards for regional economic cooperation. Countries are expected to participate in such cooperation mechanisms to adhere to international environmental standards.
We call upon ASEAN-China environmental cooperation to focus on the following:
1.1 Continue the efforts towards the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development by fostering a low-carbon, resilient, and inclusive post-pandemic recovery.
1.2 Support green development, including through the implementation of the Paris Agreement and sharing of best practices.
1.3 Deepen the active engagement of youth in sustainable development efforts, unite all stakeholders to advise on the proposed integrated strategies for green recovery, marshal resources and help ensure predictable financing for these activities, and to develop best practices in collaboration with political, security, humanitarian, and development.
We call upon the youth from ASEAN countries and China to contribute to the regional environmental protection and cooperation from following expected actions:
2.1 Strengthening the capacity of young people in climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts by equipping young with the knowledge and skills.
2.2 Encouraging further collaborations among young people from ASEAN countries and China to be dialogue partners in the recent ASEAN's effort in the ASEAN Youth on Climate Action (ASEANyouCAN) and ASEAN Youth Biodiversity Programme (AYBP) dialogue.
2.3 Adopting a more environmentally friendly lifestyle and consumer choices; coming up with innovative solutions to reduce emissions and dealing with environmental degradation and pollution.