In this episode, we chat with Tegan Clark, a PhD candidate at ANU and research assistant at the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership, about her journey from growing up in Cairns to becoming a leading youth voice in climate action.
Tegan shares how her connection with nature shaped her decision to get involved in climate activism. She talks about her experience at COP29 with Plan International Australia’s Youth Activist Series, the importance of interdisciplinary science, and her work advocating for stronger youth engagement in global climate negotiations.
We also discuss Tegan’s submission to Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) for COP31, which focuses on breaking down barriers to youth participation, and the role of initiatives like the Australian Pacific Youth Climate Dialogue in empowering young climate leaders. Tune in to hear Tegan’s vision for a COP where young people’s voices are not just present — they’re truly heard and valued.
Links:
The Australia Pacific Youth Climate Dialogue
COP31: A COP for Children and Young People
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Tegan Clark
03:39 Journey to Climate Activism
07:27 Experiences at COP29
11:17 Fossil fuel companies at COPs
13:04 Submission for COP31: A COP for Children and Young People
16:16 Australian Pacific Youth Climate Dialogue
19:10 Learning from Pacific Youth and First Nations Perspectives
20:19 Training Programs for Youth Engagement
23:15 Confidence for Youth at COPs
25:30 Overcoming Challenges in Diverse Backgrounds
https://www.instagram.com/gday_cop31/
