Climate Without Borders: Global Cooperation for a Changing World

Climate change doesn’t know or respect borders, but its impacts are deeply unequal. Rising seas, extreme weather, and resource scarcity hits vulnerable and emerging communities first, while industrialised nations are often better equipped to adapt to our changing weather. Tackling this requires global solidarity.

by Joshua Fenemer

Climate change is a global problem, yet its impacts are far from evenly distributed. As the Oxfam America describes, “The impact of shifting weather patterns, droughts, flooding, and storms hits marginalized communities with few resources first and worst…,” highlighting how vulnerable communities face disproportionate risks. Wealthier nations can invest in infrastructure or new technologies to combat and adapt to the changing weather we all experience, whilst smaller or developing countries struggle with rising seas, extreme weather, and limited resources. The widening gap between those who contribute most to climate change and those who suffer its worst consequences demands coordinated international action that amplifies the voices of those most affected.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has and continues to advocate for what it calls “an integrated youth, climate, peace and security approach,” emphasising that involving young people in policymaking can create “meaningful and lasting impact.” By embedding a wide range of youth perspectives, climate strategies and policies can become more inclusive and better equipped to address the complex and interconnected challenges posed by environmental change in local communities. Similarly, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in their ‘Tackling Inequality and Climate Change: A Youth’s Perspective’ podcast, highlights the importance of youth involvement in shaping global responses to climate inequality, stressing that young leaders are instrumental in creating policies that promote both sustainability and social equity. The IMF Chief Economist Gita Gopinath, together with two university students from the UK, highlight that climate change can only be effectively addressed through collaboration across borders, sectors, and generations.

However, global cooperation extends beyond youth engagement. Knowledge-sharing, financial support for adaptation in vulnerable countries, and coordinated policy frameworks are all essential in building climate resilience where it is most needed. By innovating, collaborating and funding climate change solutions, we can begin to bridge the gap between the major polluters and those who bear the greatest burden.

Climate change knows no borders, and neither should the solutions.

By amplifying the voices of those most affected, considering the perspectives of future generations, and fostering international collaboration, we can ensure a just and sustainable future through shared responsibility, innovation and inclusive policies.

Joshua Fenemer is an Environmental, Health and Safety Apprentice who is passionate about travel, sustainability, and global affairs. A national of the United Kingdom, Joshua’s ambition is to become a leader who amplifies youth perspectives on sustainability and to progress into a leadership role that drives meaningful environmental change across international platforms.