The workshop sought to, among other things equip participants with the necessary knowledge and tools to contribute meaningfully to Ghana’s commitment to the Paris Agreement by reducing emissions and mitigating climate change.

The workshop aligns with AMA’s Climate Action Plan, which aims to foster sustainable urban development by integrating climate-conscious initiatives into key sectors.

The plan prioritizes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing resilience to climate change impacts, and promoting eco-friendly practices across the city.

Speaking at the workshop, the Deputy Director of Waste Management at AMA, Mr. Victor Kotey, reaffirmed Accra’s commitment as a signatory to the Paris Agreement to limit the rise in global temperatures to below 1.5 degrees Celsius.

He outlined the city’s Climate Action Plan, which focuses on five key sectors: waste, energy, transport, land use, and mainstreaming climate policies.

He encouraged participants to be innovative in designing projects that align with emission reduction goals, emphasizing that any intervention proposed within the framework of the Youth Climate Action Fund must demonstrate a clear potential to cut emissions.

“The key objective here is emission reduction. Projects in waste management, transportation, land use, and energy must aim at curbing emissions to qualify for funding,” he reiterated.

The Director of Agriculture at AMA, Mr. Kodwo Ennin Fynn, highlighted the importance of urban gardening and tree planting as effective strategies to absorb carbon dioxide and improve air quality while urging participants to consider initiatives such as container gardening, rainwater harvesting, as well as the establishment of fruit trees in urban homes, to enhance climate resilience.

Assembly Member for the Mamprobi Electoral Area and a member of AMA’s Environment and Development Committee, Hon. Meshach Mensah Srodah, described the workshop as crucial in involving the younger generation in climate action. He noted that many urban areas lacked sufficient green spaces due to rapid development, but youth participation could drive a cultural shift towards sustainability.

He emphasised that the ideation workshop provided a platform for knowledge-sharing and collaboration, empowering young people to develop sustainable projects aligned with Accra’s Climate Action Plan and is expected to help participants refine their ideas and implement projects that would drive meaningful climate solutions within their communities.

Some Assembly members interacted with students, offering valuable insights on climate change and project development.