Municipalities, educators, and NGOs now have a powerful new resource to actively involve young people in climate and environmental initiatives. NBS EduWORLD has developed a comprehensive Youth Inclusion Toolkit, offering practical guidance to ensure meaningful youth participation in Nature-Based Solutions (NbS).
Drawing on insights from European projects such as DesirMED and NBRACER, this toolkit equips local authorities and organizations with methods, tools, and strategies to engage youth in shaping resilient, sustainable communities.
💡 Spotlight: Fryslân – Leading the Way in Youth Participation
Fryslân, a region participating in the NBRACER project, provides an inspiring example of youth-driven climate action. The region has been actively engaging young people aged 12–35 in climate and environmental planning through innovative initiatives such as a serious game on the IJsselmeer region.
In this hands-on experience, participants:
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Role-played different stakeholders
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Negotiated trade-offs between environmental, economic, and social priorities
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Explored solutions for water safety, biodiversity, and sustainable growth
This interactive approach transforms complex policy challenges into engaging, educational experiences, empowering young people to actively contribute to shaping a sustainable and resilient future.
Why This Matters
The Fryslân case highlights the importance of creative participatory tools that move beyond traditional consultation. By giving young people a voice and hands-on experience, municipalities can:
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Foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among youth
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Encourage innovative solutions to climate challenges
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Build stronger, more resilient communities
Municipalities across Europe and beyond can draw inspiration from Fryslân’s success to create meaningful, youth-led climate initiatives in their own regions.
Discover how your city or organization can empower youth to drive climate action and build resilient futures.
👉 Read the full toolkit here: Youth Driving Climate Action Toolkit
