Per Rotary International: “With the impact of climate change being observed worldwide, Rotary members are spearheading initiatives and participating in global conversations to foster sustainable practices.
Advika Agarwal of Clarksburg, Maryland–who attends Richard Montgomery High School–was chosen as one of 22 young volunteers by Rotary for her dedication to environmental causes to participate in the global environmental dialogue at COP28. The 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference or Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC, more commonly referred to as COP28, will be the 28th United Nations Climate Change conference, held from 30 November until 12 December 2023, at the Expo City, Dubai
From co-founding the youth-led nonprofit Compostology focused on addressing school food waste via in-school programming and legislation in Maryland (and now, 10 other states) to advocating for and securing water filtration stations in Montgomery County public schools, Agarwal has worked with diverse stakeholders to implement positive environmental change. Now, Agarwal, who is a member of the MoCo Rotaract Club, is set to enhance her knowledge on climate action, gaining experience that will empower her future initiatives to create a sustainable impact at home and worldwide.
“I strive for a career in which I can advance climate justice and climate change mitigation and adaptation across political boundaries, through policy, scientific research, and humanitarian aid,” said Agarwal. “I look forward to participating in COP28 through Rotary and to collaborating with other like-minded individuals to address the impacts of climate change.”
Rotary’s participation in COP28 underscores its wider dedication to environmental sustainability and serves to highlight the critical role of younger generations in addressing the challenges of climate change. “Rotary believes in the transformative power of youth to shape the environmental future,” said Rotary International President Gordon McInally. “These young leaders are not just attending a conference; they are there to ignite change, bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to the global platform.”
Across the globe, Rotary members have pioneered a multitude of community-driven solutions that address environmental challenges, from Madagascar’s reforestation projects to organic farming practices in Taiwan and the preservation of mangrove forests worldwide. The Rotary Foundation, Rotary’s charitable arm that helps clubs work together to perform meaningful and impactful service, has committed more than US$23.7 million toward sustainable, community-based environmental projects and scholarships for professionals interested in pursuing careers related to the environment.”