Youth Pulse 2026

“We stand at a crossroads of multiple possible futures bearing the consequences of our choices today. Foresight allows us to make sense of this responsibility and decide which future to cultivate. Here, intergenerational insights from the next generation are essential because they remind us that protecting the planet is both an act of environmental stewardship and a promise to every generation that follows.” Enkhuun Byambadorj, Co-Founder of Breathe Mongolia; member of the Global Future Council on Clean AirYouth-led initiatives responding to environmental challengesEnvironmental outlook Fifty three per cent of youth-led environmental initiatives are prioritizing climate action. Only 5% of projects on climate didn’t engage with any partners.Type of projects Partnerships Intervention typeson climate action and educationon nature restoration and protectionon food security and agripreneurshipon employment and entrepreneurship 1 Civil society organization/non-profit | 2 Directly with citizens 3 Public sector actor | 4 Private sector company | 5 AcademiaClimate education Environment Circular economy Reforestation and conservation Food systems Climates justice Clean air Clean water Emission reduction Biodiversity Sustainable consumption Oceans And more60 1020304050 0057.3% 45.6% 35.9%34% 21.4% 5 4 3 2 1through direct action, such as tree planting, clean-ups and other on-the-ground initiatives.35% through awareness and advocacy campaigns, including digital platforms, reports and events.32% through skill development, such as training sessions and mentorships.20% through innovation and policy change, resulting in new public or private policies, pledges or commitments.7% through urgent mobilization in response to immediate community or environmental needs.6% 39 Youth Pulse 2026: Insights from the next generation for a changing world