New youth inclusion toolkit for local authorities
The toolkit offers a concise overview of the benefits and ways of involving young people in nature-based solutions. Aimed at local governments, educators, and NGOs, the toolkit provides practical methods to support youth engagement, strengthen social-ecological resilience, and empower young people.
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The toolkit – developed by the ICLEI network of local and regional governments – features 12 adaptable tools, such as hackathons, role-playing games, youth councils, participatory mapping, citizen science initiatives and engagement in ‘third spaces’. These are illustrated through case studies from Germany, Italy, Portugal, and Turkey.
The publication highlights that while young people are eager to play a central role in co-creating nature-based solutions, they often lack meaningful access to resources, recognition, and support. Municipalities that embrace youth as stakeholders and leaders benefit not only from fresh perspectives and stronger community trust, but also from nurturing a generation of engaged citizens who feel connected to their environment and empowered to shape their future.
Explore the latest Rural Pact resources on the topic of rural youth and join the dedicated Community Group to connect and exchange with peers.