Athari Al Serkal, member of the Arab Youth Council for Climate Change, stressed that the greatest challenge facing youth in building sustainable food systems is not a shortage of resources, but a reluctance to engage in initiatives linked to food security and climate change. She explained that such fears create “imaginary barriers” that discourage investment in this vital sector, even though the tools and opportunities needed for innovation and tangible impact are readily available.


Al Serkal made this statement during the session titled ‘How Can Youth Build a Sustainable Food System?’, on the second day of the 14th edition of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF), organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau under the theme ‘Communication for Quality of Life.’ The session was moderated by Hazza Al Shehhi, Media Personality, from the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, and took place on the Government Communication Talk stage, in partnership with Al Marwan Group.


Awareness starts in the family

During the discussion, Al Serkal highlighted the close link between climate change and food security, explaining that rising temperatures, floods, and other climate phenomena directly impact agricultural crops and livestock, foreshadowing the potential loss of some food groups in the coming decades.


Al Serkal stressed on the importance of raising awareness within families, along with the integrated role of individuals, society, and policymakers to ensure healthy and accessible food for future generations. She addressed technical solutions for building sustainable food systems, noting that previous generations laid the foundations of knowledge through their practical proximity to land and agriculture. Meanwhile, she added, the digital revolution has provided current generations with advanced tools such as AI and sensors that help farmers understand soil needs, determine appropriate water quantities, and analyse the nature of crops, paving the way for broader innovations in the future.


Empowering youth to lead

According to Al Serkal, the initiatives launched by the Arab Youth Council for Climate Change, both locally and regionally, have contributed to empowering youth to engage in influential discussions on climate and food security issues. She explained that the UAE has succeeded in bridging the gap that existed between younger generations and these complex issues, making their voices heard in international forums, enhancing their presence and role in formulating future solutions.


In conclusion, Al Serkal said that sustainability begins with an individual's daily behaviour, noting that its true value is not achieved through theoretical knowledge alone, but rather through simple practices such as rationalising water consumption, avoiding food waste, and promoting home gardening, which fosters a sense of responsibility toward the environment.