Bermuda is to host its first United Nations-endorsed Local Consultation of Youth to look into the threats faced by the island from climate change.

Noelle Young, founder of the Youth Delegation of Bermuda, received approval from Youngo, the Children and Youth Constituency of the UN under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, to set a date for the event.

The LCOY is a free event designed to unite young leaders, activists, advocates and school groups to discuss some of Bermuda’s most pressing challenges and address the state of Bermuda in relation to the UN’s sustainable development goals.

It aims to empower Bermuda's youth by gathering their observations and recommendations, highlighting youth initiatives and projects, as well as providing information about national and international opportunities for success.

Ms Young said: "I urge all young Bermudians to take action. Do not hesitate to become the leaders, innovators and change-makers that our community needs.

“Change starts with us. The state of our country must change as many of us are disheartened, leaving or trudging along day to day lacking hope for a better future on this island. We cannot continue to wait and hope for better — a rescue is not coming.

“We need to rescue ourselves and make preparations for the generations to come. Start initiatives, engage with community organisations, participate in decision-making processes.”

She added: "The main focus of Bermuda's first LCOY will be climate justice. I believe many people do not fully realise the extent of how it affects them on a daily basis. As a small island nation, it is vital that we educate ourselves and others about climate justice.

“We will be discussing a wide variety of topics from the climate justice standpoint, including water rights, access to education, waste management, food security, our astonishingly high homicide rate and, most importantly, youth equity."

Ms Young will be responsible for submitting a final LCOY Bermuda report to Youngo, which will be included in a collective document from all approved nations for consideration at COP29 in November.

She hopes to unite passionate young leaders to address some of the most pressing issues facing Bermuda.

The event is designed to foster community engagement, raise awareness and develop actionable solutions through targeted discussions and collaborative efforts of Bermudian youth aged 13 to 39.

It aims to provide a space to boost youth action locally and create input into international conferences. It represents a national version of the international Conference of Youth.

Sagar Kalra, Youngo communications co-liaison 2024, said: "The frequency of climate disasters will continue increasing as we continue the business-as-usual approach.

“Our world leaders and elders need to listen to the voices of young people who will inherit a future shaped by today's decisions.

“I am extremely glad to see Bermuda host their first LCOY, where young people across Bermuda will have the opportunity to share their recommendations for a better future with their elders, their government and world leaders.”