COMMISSIONER JACQUELINE MCGOWAN JONES: YOUNG VOICES DEMAND ACTION ON ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
The Commissioner for Children and Young People, Jacqueline McGowan-Jones
BY ASAD KHAN
The Commissioner for Children and Young People, Jacqueline McGowan-Jones, has shed light on the findings from the ‘Your Environment: Your Say’ survey, which highlights the significant concerns young Western Australians have regarding environmental issues.
The survey, which engaged over 980 children and young people, reveals that 89% are worried about the protection of the natural environment and the urgent need for renewable energy initiatives.
Commissioner McGowan-Jones emphasized that young people not only express concern but also present innovative ideas for improvement.
“They are really concerned about the environment and have great ideas about how we could do better,”
Suggestions from participants included community-driven initiatives like beach clean-up days and even proposals for boats dedicated to cleaning up marine environments, illustrating their commitment to safeguarding wildlife and ecosystems.
Addressing concerns about pollution and recycling, McGowan-Jones said that youth are eager to participate in discussions and decisions impacting their future.
“They want renewable energy more quickly than is currently happening and want to be included in climate discussions,” she said.
The Commissioner advocated for public hearings and consultations to ensure young voices are heard in policy-making, emphasizing the importance of engaging youth in local government efforts to protect the environment.
When asked about the practical steps to elevate youth involvement in decision-making, McGowan-Jones highlighted the necessity of amplifying young voices.
“It’s our responsibility to elevate their concerns,” she said, stressing that under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, young people have the right to a safe, clean, and healthy environment.
She called for the establishment of youth advisory councils within local governments to ensure that the insights and ideas of young people are integrated into environmental policies.
As the conversation closed, McGowan-Jones reiterated the urgent need for collective action, urging governments to recognize their duty to future generations and to involve youth in creating sustainable solutions for the challenges that lie ahead.
The findings from the ‘Your Environment: Your Say’ report serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to and empowering young voices in the pursuit of environmental sustainability.
Listen to Ngaarda Media’s Lead Journalist Asad Khan speak with the Commissioner for Children and Young People, Jacqueline McGowan-Jones: