From research to reality: Thoughtful collaboration

Kai Lovel highlights that the key to how we will deal with climate change lies in collaboration – across disciplines and professions, and importantly, across generations.

For years now, climate change has been a heated topic of discussion in school science labs, humanities classrooms and even the odd debating competition. As educators relied on the science to communicate these issues of climate to students, young people quickly realised what this might mean for us and our future on this planet. 

“Generations made their voices heard globally, no less than right here in WA. We were loud in protest, loud in discussion and loud in action. There was a tangible sense of responsibility - and urgency. There wasn’t enough being done.”

These issues have not gone away, and as we begin to adopt research into reality, there are clear stakeholders that can affect change across generations. The power brokers, policy creators and decision makers within academic disciplines and professional bodies are urged in UWA Public Policy Institute’s Preparedness Report to consider how climate change demands thoughtful action and adaptation. The original report is forward focused, and that’s why reshaping this message for young people makes so much sense.

With powerful ideas and practical takes on topics like oceanography and healthcare, this collection of essays rewritten for a younger audience encourages cross-generational collaboration. I expect it will foster further discussion - and that action we speak of - new projects, events, initiatives, innovations, enterprises; at the very least, an exploration into what a young individual can do for the cause where they are right now. As practitioner Sajni Gudka reminds us in the original report, UWA positions itself at the forefront of this conversation with young people - our future academics, scientists and business leaders.

My work with TEDxYouth@Perth sees me working alongside an articulate, intelligent and diverse group of young people - as speakers, advisors or contributors. Reuben Saggar is an example of someone taking loud action, and taking real leadership. His contributions to this effort are valuable and important, particularly in the bigger picture - the responsibility for young people to continue the debate, and continue loud action, is more important than ever.

Most critical is that no one group in this discussion is alone. That everyone is on the same side of this massive challenge that affects us all. Thoughtful collaboration, like what follows in these pieces, is the way forward.

Kai has digital in his DNA, bringing a dynamic skill set to organisations & clients. In his spare time, he is a student, board advisor, speaker and advocate of generation Z.