A Murray-Darling Water and Environment Research Program (MD-WERP) study led by Griffith University has found that young people aged 16 to 25 are increasingly concerned about the impact of a changing climate on their futures, and points to the lack of suitable engagement opportunities available to these future decision makers.
Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) Director of Science Programs Nicole Carroll said young people in regional communities are aware they will need to adapt to a future with less water.
"They're already thinking about solutions - from sustainable farming to ecosystem restoration - and this study shows they want to be part of the conversation that is shaping their future.
"Younger people are also more likely to look for the answers to their questions on social media and online platforms. Understanding how younger people engage in these discussions and other opportunities for this group will be important for the sustainability and future of the Basin," Dr Carroll said.
The report, Youth future perspectives of climate change adaptation: the case of the Murray-Darling Basin used a survey to gather data across 4 key questions and found that this select group are mostly concerned with water-related issues.
