Why We Need More Research-Based Youth Activism, Especially in Climate Adaptation

C limate change is the defining challenge of our time, and the urgency to act has never been clearer. With no “Planet B” to fall back on, the necessity of effective climate adaptation strategies is paramount. As the effects of climate change intensify, it’s crucial to embrace every opportunity to mitigate its impact—and that includes empowering the next generation to lead the charge. 

Youth activism has emerged as a powerful force in the global fight against climate change. Young people are not just pushing for change; they are at the forefront of efforts to address the growing inequalities caused by climate disasters. However, to truly create lasting, meaningful change, youth activism must be grounded in rigorous research and evidence-based approaches. This ensures that our efforts are not only passionate but also informed, credible, and impactful. 

The Role of Youth in Climate Adaptation 
I’ve had the privilege of attending several United Nations climate conferences from 2021 to 2023, including as a member of the Global Center on Adaptation CEO’s Youth Advisory Panel. These experiences opened my eyes to the significant role young people play in shaping the future of climate adaptation. While we will face the direct impacts of climate change, many policymakers still overlook our potential, viewing us as too inexperienced to influence policy. 
However, the more I engaged in these discussions, the more I realized that our ability to make an impact depends heavily on the quality of our contributions. Youth activism that lacks the backing of research and data is often dismissed as idealistic or impractical. If we want to be taken seriously at decision-making tables, we must arm ourselves with knowledge, science, and evidence-based solutions. 

Real-Life Examples of Research-Based Youth Activism 
Across the globe, there are powerful examples of young activists using research to drive their climate adaptation efforts. These movements demonstrate the importance of blending passion with hard data to create lasting change: 

• The Zero Hour Movement: This youth-led organization fights for climate adaptation policies that intersect with social justice. They emphasize research to advocate for solutions that prioritize marginalized communities most vulnerable to climate impacts. 
• Youth Climate Lawsuits: Youth-led lawsuits, such as the Juliana v. United States case, leverage scientific evidence to hold governments accountable for their role in climate change. These lawsuits are driven by research that proves the dangers of inaction. 
• Youth-Led Research on Indigenous Knowledge: In various regions, young activists work alongside Indigenous communities to document and integrate traditional ecological knowledge into modern climate adaptation strategies. This approach respects centuries of wisdom while tackling new environmental challenges. 
• GCA’s Youth Factsheets: To make climate adaptation data accessible, the Global Center on Adaptation’s CEO Youth Advisory Panel produced factsheets summarizing key insights from the State and Trends in Adaptation reports. These summaries equip young advocates with the data they need to engage in meaningful policy discussions. 
• Fridays for Future in Lucca, Italy: In Lucca, youth activists successfully pressured local governments to adopt climate policies based on research. A study by Annesi et al. (2021) highlighted how youth involvement redefined local governance processes, showing how research-driven activism can bring institutional change. 

These examples show how research-based youth activism can influence climate adaptation policies at every level—from local governments to global institutions. 

Why Research-Based Activism Matters 
Research-based activism is more relevant today than ever before. There are three key reasons why it’s essential to ground youth activism in evidence: 

1. Knowledge Empowers Action 
The saying “knowledge is power” holds especially true in the fight against climate change. Understanding the science behind the issues helps young activists engage in more informed, meaningful conversations with policymakers and communities. When activism is backed by research, it equips youth with the tools to advocate for practical, data-driven solutions that address the root causes of climate change. By speaking confidently about the science behind climate adaptation, young people can demand accountability and champion policies that work. 
2. Evidence Leads to Better Policies 
Policymakers are far more likely to listen when solutions are based on sound evidence rather than emotional appeals alone. Research-based activism shows a deep understanding of the complexities of climate adaptation and ensures that proposed solutions are not just theoretical, but rooted in science. In my own research as part of a PhD in climate change, I explored how bridging the gap between theory and practice can lead to more effective adaptation strategies. The lesson is clear: well-researched actions not only inspire confidence but also drive real policy change. 
3. Building Credibility and Trust 
One of the most significant challenges youth activists face is gaining credibility. Opponents often dismiss their efforts as passionate but uninformed. By embedding activism in rigorous research, young people can elevate their voices and prove their understanding of the issue at hand. This approach also builds trust with decision-makers and the public, showing that youth activism is not just about raising awareness but about providing actionable solutions grounded in scientific fact. 

Fueling the Future of Climate Action 
The future of climate adaptation relies heavily on today’s youth. However, if we are to maximize our impact, we must embrace research-based methodologies. Young activists have the unique ability to bridge the gap between science and society, transforming complex climate data into accessible, actionable insights. Armed with knowledge, credibility, and evidence-based proposals, youth activists can influence policies, forge global partnerships, and inspire the world to adapt to the challenges ahead. 

We are not just the voices of tomorrow; we are the changemakers of today. And with the right tools—namely, research and data—we can lead the charge in building a more resilient, sustainable world. 

The ideas presented in this article aim to inspire adaptation action – they are the views of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the Global Center on Adaptation.

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