#VONG - Nurturing changemakers to save the planet

The population explosion combined with the fast-paced economic growth has led to a rampant depletion of our natural resources. They say we have exceeded the "planetary limits" of environmental security. Despite unprecedented climate change, volatility and indisputable scientific predictions, our leaders have not been able to mobilise the political will to take hard measures as the entire world economy is reliant on the unsustainable growth pattern. Most of us, under pressure to earn a livelihood in an intensely competitive modern world, are not even motivated to support the changes.

This volatile planet will be inherited by the new generation, who are largely unaware of the gravity of the situation. Once these young stakeholders of the planet understand the issues, they will be more motivated to see an accelerated change and will also be able to affect public opinion sufficiently.

#VONG program is designed to bolster the Voice Of the New Generation. This is done by sensitising 13 to 18-year-olds about the underlying causes of the precarious state of our planet and encouraging them to develop well-founded opinions about possible solutions, leveraging on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals framework. Their informed opinions and untainted voices are then amplified to the civil society and the policymakers by collaborating with government agencies. This in turn will accelerate the investments and promote the adoption of sustainable practices in the entire value chain that will save the planet.

Running the #VONG program requires a strong organisation that builds interest and understanding of the issues in the new generation through multiple engagement channels and publicity; develops incentivisation and recognition for them; and partners with government agencies, civil societies, global thought leaders and developmental organisations. 

For someone genuinely concerned about the planet, there is a no wiser investment than building awareness, engaged and empowered citizens of the world(from our new generation), who will grow from strength to strength. This army of the new generation will help make this colossal goal of sustainable living, within our reach.