Building a Greener Future: Youth Leadership in Climate Action

The Los Angeles County Youth Climate Commission (YCC) is a pioneering initiative that empowers young people to actively participate in shaping climate policy, ensuring their concerns and ideas are integrated into governmental decision-making. Formed in June 2023, the YCC is the first of its kind in the nation, providing a platform for youth to influence policies that will impact their future. The commission’s work centers on identifying climate priorities among young people in the county and advocating for policies that address these concerns.

A core focus of the YCC is promoting environmental justice by ensuring that the voices of young people from diverse backgrounds are represented in climate discussions. The YCC recognizes that marginalized communities in L.A. County are disproportionately affected by pollution and climate impacts. The YCC's efforts are informed by the Youth Climate Priorities Report, completed in April 2024, which gathered over 1,300 responses from young people across the county. The report highlights cleaner air, green spaces, and green buildings as the top climate priorities for youth, reflecting their immediate concerns about air quality, environmental health, and sustainable development. 

In addition to advocating for these priorities, the YCC is actively involved in reviewing and supporting relevant legislation, advising county departments on policy development, and organizing district coalitions to address local concerns. By engaging in these activities, the YCC not only amplifies the voices of young people but also drives meaningful climate action at the local level. The commission’s work serves as a model for youth engagement in climate policy, inspiring similar initiatives in other regions and demonstrating the critical role of youth leadership in building a sustainable future.