This month, audiences can screen Net Zero Speaks with Ineza Grace on the Planet Classroom Network. This film is part of the Net Zero series curated by the Protect Our Planet Movement and Planet Classroom.
Ineza Grace, the founder of The Green Protector and co-founder of the Loss and Damage Youth Coalition, is an African eco-feminist who believes in the sustainability of the ecosystem and the power of women to lead change. She holds a degree in Environmental Engineering from the University of Rwanda. In the new Net Zero show, Climate Activist Samuel C. Okorie from Nigeria engages in a discussion with Ineza about Rwanda’s commitments to Net Zero and the crucial role of youth in driving climate action.
The Global Search for Education is pleased to welcome Samuel C. Okorie.
Sam, welcome. Why did you want to interview Ineza Grace? What inspired you about her work?
Ineza is a leader who has been instrumental in leading the global agenda on loss and damage for climate-vulnerable communities. She has also played a crucial role in ensuring that communities have access to funds to address climate change-induced disasters. In addition to her accomplishments in the field of climate change loss and damage, she has gained global recognition for her efforts in youth mobilisation, capacity building, and promoting climate change awareness and nature-based solutions. In her home country of Rwanda, she is widely acknowledged as one of the prominent youth leaders in the climate space, having made significant contributions to youth-led climate action in Rwanda and other nations.
Ineza’s work has been a tremendous inspiration, not only to me but to countless young people around the world. She embodies the urgent need for taking prompt action to address climate change issues. Ineza serves as a role model, positively influencing the lives of many through her mentorship support and capacity-building training for youth. Her efforts contribute to building the resilience and adaptive capacity of young individuals to tackle climate change.
What surprised you most about your interview?
During the interview, I was taken aback when Ineza revealed that her country’s government recognizes the crucial role of youth in decision-making processes and negotiations within the UNFCCC. I was truly amazed by the remarkable growth of the renewable energy sector in her country. It was inspiring to learn about the proactive measures taken by the government to reduce carbon emissions, including the identification of necessary interventions and the implementation of relevant laws. While I anticipated some progress in the energy transition process in Rwanda, I was genuinely surprised by the speed at which this process is being carried out, especially when compared to other African countries still grappling with energy transition challenges. Additionally, it was enlightening to discover that Rwanda is gradually phasing out fossil fuels and actively fostering a platform for the circular economy.
Sam, could you please share with us your main takeaways from your interview for the Net Zero audience?
My main takeaways from the interview are as follows:
Firstly, the Rwanda Government is making relentless efforts to meet its net zero targets. They are actively working towards reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to a more sustainable future.
Secondly, it was inspiring to learn that Rwandan youth are not being left behind but are actively involved in the decision-making process. They have a seat at the table, contributing to inclusive decision-making processes aimed at addressing the climate crisis in Rwanda.
Lastly, Rwanda is undergoing a gradual transition towards a circular economy. This means moving away from a linear “take-make-waste” model and embracing a more sustainable approach. The country is also prioritising the development of its renewable energy sector, aiming to rely more on clean and sustainable sources.
These takeaways highlight Rwanda’s dedication to combating climate change and creating a greener, more sustainable future.
Thank you Sam
C. M. Rubin and Samuel C. Okorie
Don’t miss Net Zero Speaks with Ineza Grace, now streaming on the Planet Classroom Network. This film is curated by the Protect Our Planet Movement and Planet Classroom.
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