SINGAPORE — A 22-year-old climate advocate with legal ambitions to pursue environmental justice for the marginalized, a coral scientist who has activated over 900 divers for reef clean-ups, and a first-year university student championing for biodiversity credits and offsets at policy-making platforms with senior government leaders. 10 impressive and notable youth, some of whom are still completing their studies, have contributed immensely to conservation and environmental causes before hitting the age of 35. They have been chosen for the 10 for Zero Awards by Conservation International Singapore, with the award ceremony being held in commemoration of World Environmental Day.
The 10 for Zero Awards is a new initiative that seeks to recognize, celebrate, and empower young environmentalists who are passionate about our natural world, sustainable development and climate action. Together, they will form a group dedicated to actions for a quicker journey towards a future of Zero waste and net Zero carbon emissions.
The 10 youth leaders will be announced at the 10 for Zero Awards Ceremony, where they will engage in panel discussions introducing their projects related to key environmental topics. They were carefully selected from nation-wide applications and nominations by a panel of subject experts, for the social benefit of their work, environmental impact, and community influence towards a future of Zero waste, net Zero carbon emissions and a healthy natural world.
“We recognize the increasing need to take urgent action to conserve our environment and reduce carbon emissions. Young people are a critical driving force for the climate agenda, taking the lead in shaping their future and leading their communities for action. The 10 for Zero Awards seeks to empower passionate young champions of our environment, to maximize their reach and help them deepen their impact,” said Geraldine Chin, Country Director of Conservation International Singapore.
Winning the award is just the beginning. The 10 youth will join an exclusive youth network that offers mentorship and coaching from global conservation experts, and opportunities to participate in local and international environmental proposals, value-adding workshops, field research, and overseas climate summits. The network also serves as a platform to form meaningful connections and encourages them to create collaborative efforts for greater impact.
“We were very impressed with the work, dedication and drive of these youth leaders. It is our hope that through the 10 for Zero Awards, they will be provided resources, connections and opportunities to put their passion into concrete actions to build a better tomorrow for all,” said Kathlyn Tan, Judge and Board Trustee of Conservation International Singapore.
The 10 for Zero Awards is supported by funding from the Drop by Drop Project, a collaboration between Clean the World Foundation and Sands. In collaboration with Marina Bay Sands and ArtScience Museum, the 10 for Zero Awards Ceremony and Panel is presented in conjunction with the opening symposium of the ArtScience Museum’s latest exhibition, Sensory Odyssey. Together, Conservation International and their partners hope to articulate a commitment to inspiring change and driving impact in the community through meaningful collaborations.
“We are delighted to support this meaningful initiative, which we foresee will empower youth to make a significant difference. Earth is a home to all of us, and it is our responsibility to work hand-in-hand to prevent its destruction. We are hopeful, and excited to see what inspiring, innovative solutions these youth will bring,” said Manohar Shenoy, Executive Director of Clean the World Foundation.
“We have continued supporting Conservation International Singapore because we recognize the importance of their efforts to educate today’s youth for the preservation of tomorrow’s future,” said Katarina Tesarova, Senior Vice-President and Chief Sustainability Officer of Sands. She added, “Their environmental advocacy work to inspire and empower young people fits squarely with our focus on creating community engagement avenues that foster collaboration to preserve the natural heritage and ecological assets of our regions.”
The event is open to the public, free-of-charge. To register, visit here.
