When the United Nations launched the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015, it laid down an ambitious roadmap to tackle poverty, inequality, climate change, and more by 2030. While governments, institutions, and businesses have a part to play, one group often overlooked , yet incredibly vital , is the youth.
Today, people aged 15 to 29 make up around 1.8 billion of the global population. That’s nearly one in every four people on the planet. With energy, creativity, and a natural knack for technology and communication, young people are more than just stakeholders in the SDGs , they are key drivers of progress.
Young people are the most affected by the future being shaped today. Decisions about climate, education, and employment directly impact their lives. It’s no surprise that youth-led movements like Fridays for Future, started by Greta Thunberg, have gained global attention. These movements have proven that when young people speak, the world listens. In fact, the 2020 UN Youth Report highlighted that young people are already contributing actively to all SDGs , from volunteering and entrepreneurship to innovation and advocacy. Whether it’s students starting sustainability clubs or youth-led NGOs bringing solar power to rural villages, their impact is real and growing.
Many young people are not waiting for change , they are creating it. Across the world, young entrepreneurs are solving local problems with global potential. Take the example of Agrosmart, a Brazilian agri-tech startup co-founded by Mariana Vasconcelos when she was just 23. Her platform helps farmers use data to reduce water usage and improve crop yields , directly contributing to SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). In India, a group of college students launched RecycleX, a startup that turns industrial waste into sustainable construction material. These stories are becoming more common, proving that youth innovation is at the forefront of sustainable solutions.
This generation of youth has grown up with the internet, making them naturally skilled at spreading awareness and mobilizing action. Social media campaigns, online petitions, and virtual fundraisers have become powerful tools to support the SDGs.
Despite their passion, young people often face barriers , limited funding, lack of mentorship, and not being included in decision-making spaces. According to the World Youth Report, more than 55% of youth feel excluded from important policy discussions, especially in developing countries. There’s also a global issue of youth unemployment. As per ILO data,over 73 million young people were unemployed in 2022. SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) cannot be achieved unless young people are given better access to skills training, fair jobs, and opportunities to participate in the economy.
As we approach 2030, time is running short to achieve the SDGs. But there is a silver lining , the unwavering energy, passion, and resilience of young people worldwide. With the right support and recognition, the youth of today can become the changemakers of tomorrow, shaping a future that is sustainable, inclusive, and just for all.
