Youth on the BLUEFRONT: How young people are leading the charge for water justice

Water is the lifeblood of our planet, communities, and economies. Yet, the critical conversations about its sustainable future often exclude the most crucial voices: young people. This is especially true for those from disadvantaged and marginalized backgrounds, who are most at risk of being left behind by the green transition. The BLUEFRONT project is here to change that.

At its heart, BLUEFRONT is a movement to position youth at the forefront of Europe's Blue Economy. We are building a platform where young people, particularly those aged 14-25 from rural, remote, and underrepresented communities, are not just heard but are empowered to lead. The project directly addresses a critical gap: the lack of educational resources and opportunities for youth to engage meaningfully with environmental advocacy and the blue economy.

Through hands-on training, mentorship, and real-world community projects, BLUEFRONT provides the tools and confidence young people need to investigate local water challenges, from the lakes of Finland to the coastal waters of Malta. They are trained to conduct field research, analyse their findings, and develop "water roadmaps"—strategic plans for sustainable water use in their own communities.

This isn't just about learning; it's about acting. By empowering these young leaders, we are fostering a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens ready to advocate for water justice and shape a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.