Abbey Abramson

  Climate change projects for carbon emissions mitigation Carbon projects: baseline gaming and benefit-sharing opacity Nature-based carbon projects (e.g., REDD+ and voluntary offset schemes) can strengthen financing for forests—if their numbers are credible and if communities share in the benefits. A growing empirical record reveals systemic weaknesses in baselines, leakage, permanence, and safeguards, resulting in over-credited projects that deliver minimal real climate benefits (West et al., 2024; Berkeley Carbon Trading/Carbon Market Watch; The Guardian/Reuters, 2024–2025). Two recurring integrity gaps: Baselines and additionality. “Elastic methodologies” allow developers to set inflated deforestation baselines, so that mere continuation of the status quo yields large credits (CMW, 2023; West et al., 2024). Benefit-sharing and land rights. Where tenure is contested or community voice is weak, revenue distribution becomes opaque, fueling conflict and undermining stewardship (CI...

Protecting mangroves and forest projects Forests, Water, and the Green Mirage Why “green” can go wrong Reforestation drives, mangrove plantings , and watershed protection programs are often highlighted in national climate plans. On paper, they promise carbon storage, coastal protection, cooler microclimates, and resilient water supplies. In practice, many become green mirages—projects that appear promising in photos but fail to survive a single dry season, storm surge, or budget cycle. The reasons are clear: sapling scams , inflated survival rates, species planted in the wrong places, and contracts that pay for “number of trees planted” rather than for ecosystems restored. Land-tenure conflicts and weak law enforcement widen the gap between spending and real protection. UNDP’s work on corruption risks in adaptation and REDD+ warned of this dynamic over a decade ago, and the risks remain current (UNDP, 2010/2015). This chapter focuses on three fronts where integrity failures are common...

  Sustainable lifestyles and a plant-based diet Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles P romoting sustainable lifestyles among youth is not just a responsibility, but also a powerful tool for addressing climate change. Individual choices, when made with awareness and commitment, can significantly reduce environmental impact. By taking actionable steps in their daily lives, young people can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also inspire others to do the same.  This section highlights practical strategies for sustainable living, focusing on areas where youth can make a meaningful difference, including adopting plant-based diets, minimizing energy consumption, reducing waste, and prioritizing sustainable transportation. Adopting Plant-Based Diets Dietary choices have a profound impact on the environment. Animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. By shifting to plant-based diets, youth can reduce their ecological ...

  Roles of youth in combating against climate change Call to Action for Young People to Lead and Inspire Change Youth can play a transformative role in combating climate change and driving sustainable development. To harness this potential, it is essential to provide clear, actionable steps that empower young individuals to lead initiatives and inspire others. Young people, with their unique perspectives and determination, can catalyze meaningful progress by engaging in collective action, leveraging innovation, and amplifying their voices. This section outlines specific steps to motivate young people to take action, join movements, and spearhead projects focused on climate adaptation and sustainability. Join Climate-Focused Groups and Movements Participating in climate-focused groups and movements connects youth with like-minded individuals and amplifies their impact. Organizations such as Fridays for Future, Greenpeace, and the Sunrise Movement offer collective action, advocacy, a...