The SDG Students Program is an initiative of SDSN Youth that aims to engage students in higher education in the global effort to achieve the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs, as well as empower them with the knowledge, skills, and pathways to action to be effective agents of change today.

Every month, we conduct a live-streamed webinar (SDSN Youth Live!) to connect students, our hubs, and youth from around the world to discuss pressing issues and solutions. On Friday, May 29th, we were excited to host Sir Robert Watson, former climate advisor to the White House and IPCC, for an impassioned discussion on biodiversity and ozone depletion. 

Sir Watson’s presentation was an impassioned call to action for youth all around the world. Sir Watson first informed engaged participants on the science of biodiversity and ecosystem services. Thereafter, Sir Watson appealed to young changemakers to help tackle direct and indirect drivers of biodiversity, coordinate and integrate cross-sectoral actions, and to develop a systems-based approach and narrative, particularly at the interface of government, civil society, the private sector and the scientific community. The stream can be rewatched on Facebook.

Following Sir Watson’s presentation, the live audience was presented with an opportunity to ask questions, which included discussions on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on biodiversity, and the connections between the Aichi Targets and the SDG’s. The event was chaired by Dario Piselli, former Project Lead at SDSN Youth Solutions Program.

We are looking forward to hosting our next SDSN Youth Live! with Paul Polman, former P&G President of Western Europe. Further information on the exact date and streaming link will be disclosed shortly.