Amazonian Youth To Present Manifesto At COP30

Belém, Brazil – November 15th, 2025 – The Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) of the Science Panel for the Amazon (SPA) launched the Amazonian Youth Manifesto at COP30. The statement reflects a collective vision shaped by more than 200 young scientists and leaders from the eight countries and one overseas territory that make up the Amazon.

The Manifesto highlights the Amazon as a living, interconnected system of ecological, sociocultural, and economic connectivity — all of which must be safeguarded to prevent collapse. Its recommendations call on global leaders to protect Indigenous rights, expand sustainable socio-bioeconomies, ensure fair and accessible climate finance, and create conditions that enable youth and women to lead transformative solutions.

The YAC is a permanent body within the SPA composed of 13 young researchers, scientists, climate advocates, and community representatives from across the Basin. It brings together youth leaders to promote engagement in science and policy, amplifying the voices and experiences of young people while leveraging their expertise, energy, and ideas. Its mission is to ensure that youth perspectives, knowledge, and innovation are integrated into the Panel’s scientific and policy outputs. Through its work, the YAC aims to mobilize the next generation of scientists and leaders in the region to help shape the future of science, policy, and environmental stewardship in the Amazon.

Felipe Storch de Oliveira, member of the SPA Youth Advisory Committee, emphasized that Amazonian youth are stepping forward to define the future they will inherit. “Our generation will live with the consequences of today’s decisions, so it is essential for us to present concrete measures at COP30,” said Felipe. “The manifesto reiterates the urgency of acting, the vision for the future, and the leadership of the next generation. We believe that with science-based information we can empower youth and move toward real solutions.”

Felipe Storch de Oliveira, member of the SPA Youth Advisory Committee, emphasized that Amazonian youth are stepping forward to define the future they will inherit. “Our generation will live with the consequences of today’s decisions, so it is essential for us to present concrete measures at COP30,” said Felipe. “The manifesto reiterates the urgency of acting, the vision for the future, and the leadership of the next generation. We believe that with science-based information we can empower youth and move toward real solutions.”

The document also highlights the responsibilities of different stakeholders, urging political leaders to guarantee territorial rights and transparent climate finance; the private sector to ensure traceable supply chains and reinvest in sustainable livelihoods; academia to engage directly with communities; and civil society to amplify grassroots voices and strengthen accountability.

The launch of the Youth Manifesto was a key moment in SPA’s presence at COP30, reinforcing intergenerational dialogue and recognizing Amazonian youth as essential stakeholders in shaping global climate policy.

About the SPA

The SPA, convened by the SDSN in 2020, is the first high-level scientific initiative dedicated to the Amazon. With over 300 experts, including Indigenous and local voices, the SPA delivers authoritative assessments and policy recommendations to address deforestation, climate change, and biodiversity loss. Dr. Jeffrey Sachs, President of the SDSN, is the convener of the SPA; Ms. Emma Torres is the strategic coordinator; and Dr. Carlos Nobre and Dr. Marielos Peña-Claros are the co-chairs. Learn more: https://www.sp-amazon.org/

Explore the SDSN’s COP30 Resource Hub for more information: https://www.unsdsn.org/resources/cop-resource-hub/

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