Election 2024: Why climate change tops the agenda for India's youth

As an Indian Gen-Z neurodivergent woman and filmmaker dedicated to social impact stories, I find it imperative to address the urgent concerns of my generation regarding climate change. For 18 million young Indians voting for the first time, climate change is not just a buzzword but a pressing societal issue. According to a Deloitte survey, climate change ranks as the third most important concern for these young voters. This prioritization reflects a profound awareness of the environmental crises that our nation faces.

India, with over 80% of its population residing in districts vulnerable to climate-induced disasters, is at a critical juncture. The World Bank warns of rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, declining groundwater levels, retreating glaciers, and severe cyclones. These changes threaten livelihoods, food security, and our economy. The adverse effects are already evident, with more than 9 million people suffering due to climate change, as reported by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).

Rising temperatures disproportionately affect marginalized communities, including low-income families, disabled and neurodivergent individuals, and rural populations. These groups often lack the resources to adapt to extreme weather conditions, resulting in heightened vulnerability. For instance, neurodivergent people may experience increased sensory sensitivities and mental health challenges due to extreme heat, exacerbating existing difficulties.

Despite the glaring reality, climate change has scarcely made a mark in election campaigns over the years. Reviewing the 2024 election manifestos, we see a lack of substantial commitment. The Congress manifesto mentions “climate” ten times and includes a dedicated section on “Environment, Climate Change, and Disaster Management.” In contrast, the BJP’s ‘Modi Ki Guarantee 2024’ references it just four times. Both parties propose measures such as Namami Gange, Clean Air Programme, Green Credit, and E-waste management from the BJP, and redefining forest cover and stopping toxic discharges into rivers from Congress. However, these steps are insufficient given the scale of the crisis.

Climate activists echo this sentiment. Debasree Das, a Mumbai-based climate activist, highlights the unsustainable practices of the fashion industry, noting that 87% of clothing, equivalent to 40 million tons annually, ends up in landfills. She calls for a revolutionary approach to make the fashion industry more sustainable and reduce waste, as per TOI. Poornima Sai, a 22-year-old climate activist, underscores the need for better urban planning to prevent environmental degradation. Recent landslides in Joshimath and Uttarkashi are stark reminders of the consequences of neglect.

Moreover, noise pollution and population control are critical concerns for Gen Z voters, yet they find little mention in party manifestos. The silence on these issues is deafening, especially when they directly impact our quality of life.

Our generation is demanding more than token gestures; we seek comprehensive policies and concrete actions. Here are some suggestions from Gen Z voters on climate action:

• Implement Strict Regulations on Industrial Pollution: Enforce stringent laws to curb emissions from factories and promote cleaner production methods.

• Promote Sustainable Agriculture: Encourage farming practices that conserve water, reduce pesticide use, and enhance soil health.

• Invest in Renewable Energy: Increase funding for solar, wind, and other renewable energy projects to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

• Enhance Public Transportation: Develop efficient and eco-friendly public transport systems to reduce the carbon footprint from vehicles.

• Raise Environmental Awareness: Implement educational programs to inform citizens about the importance of sustainability and how they can contribute.

• Strengthen Disaster Management Systems: Improve early warning systems and disaster response mechanisms to protect vulnerable communities from the impacts of climate-induced disasters. Ensuring timely evacuation and providing adequate relief can save lives and reduce suffering.

• Support Reforestation Projects: Launch large-scale tree planting drives and protect existing forests to enhance carbon sequestration and biodiversity. Engaging local communities in these projects can ensure their success and sustainability.

• Improve Waste Management: Develop robust recycling programs and promote the use of biodegradable materials to reduce landfill waste. Implementing strict regulations on plastic use and enhancing municipal waste collection can help manage urban waste more effectively.

• Encourage Green Building Practices: Promote the construction of energy-efficient buildings through incentives and regulations. Incorporating green roofs, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-saving technologies can make urban infrastructure more sustainable.

• Foster International Collaboration: Collaborate with other nations to share knowledge, technology, and resources for tackling climate change. Participating in global climate initiatives and honoring international agreements can enhance India's climate resilience.

As a neurodivergent individual, I often experience heightened sensitivity to environmental changes. The rising temperatures and increasing frequency of natural disasters affect not just physical health but mental well-being too. Climate change exacerbates stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges, making it even more urgent for leaders to act decisively.

At Much Much Spectrum, our mission is to make social impact stories accessible and engaging. We believe in amplifying the voices of those affected by climate change and advocating for meaningful change. It’s time for political parties to align with the priorities of Gen Z voters and demonstrate a real commitment to combating climate change. Our future depends on it.

What are the climate change policy reforms you want parties to address?

Tell us in the comments