Preceding the annual conference of the Parties (COP), COY 15 (Conference of Youth) took place from November 29 to December 1, 2019, in Madrid, Spain. Summer Rose from POP Movement, who leads an environmental group called Eco-Eaters along with other young teenagers from Tahoe Expedition Academy, had the opportunity to attend the gathering. This 3-day event witnessed the participation of young people from around the world including Taiwan, Philippines, México, The Bahamas, and others. Many distinguished individuals including António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Aiming at capacity building and policy training, the purpose of COY has been to prepare youth for participation at COP by guiding them to develop position papers, network and meet new members, and hold strategic discussions on climate change solutions. Summer was part of the Oceans Working Group in COY 15 and worked towards drafting objectives regarding the inclusion of oceans in the National Determined Contributions (NDCs). Calling it an amazing experience, she wishes to organize a local COY next year, and also participate in both COY and COP 2020.

Individuals interested in participating in COY and COP 2020 can contact Summer Rose at summerbenjamin7@outlook.com