Youth movements are at the forefront of the fight for a livable future. Around the world, young people are reimagining solutions to urgent environmental challenges and taking bold action to build a more sustainable and just world. On this episode of Terra Verde, host Fiona McLeod is joined by two young environmental leaders — Sophie Tipper and Lily YangLiu — to discuss their work advancing youth representation in environmental policy and decision-making.
Lily YangLiu, a 17-year-old from British Columbia, leads initiatives to expand early climate education and increase youth participation in global governance spaces, including the United Nations and international financial institutions. Sophie Tipper, an 18-year-old from Colorado, helped draft and pass a state bill guaranteeing youth representation in environmental justice governance. Both recently received the 2025 Brower Youth Award in recognition of their environmental achievements. Together, they reflect on the power and necessity of youth leadership in shaping a more equitable and sustainable future.