Dynamic answers to big questions

We may feel let down by some developed countries not joining or committing to some of the most important climate agreements. Are there any significant players who can also contribute to the fight against climate change?

— Chi Daoyuan, a student at the Experimental High School Attached to Beijing Normal University

I think Hong Kong is in a privileged position. It's an international financial center, and we don't experience the kind of political instability seen in many countries and regions. Depending on who the next leader is, these places may have oscillating policies, showing little consistency or accountability. However, in Hong Kong SAR and China overall, I think the path and the determination are very clear.

Moreover, we have many other active players. For example, many business leaders can also make a huge difference. We are launching a collaborative platform to unite the most influential investors, whether they are family offices, traditional investors, or leaders of multinational companies, to collectively pledge capital, commit to supporting green technologies, and focus on sustainability training for their employees.

— Poman Lo, founder of the Institute of Sustainability and Technology

How do Rhodes scholars from so many countries build international bridges in addressing environmental issues?

— Michelle Zhou, a student from Tsinghua University High School

In the first few weeks when new scholars arrive, we enable them to get to know each other and build trust while acknowledging differences. We have retreats on character, service, and leadership, but we love seeing what scholars themselves come up with.

Climate change is a very interdisciplinary range, and recently, the scholars organized a technology and society conference focusing on how technical innovations serve the public good around the world. Indeed, we have Rhodes scholars studying enterprise, environment, and sustainable finance, but we also have engineers studying the latest battery technology advancements and how to make solar panels more efficient. They can connect across many disciplinary interests and learn from each other.

— Elizabeth Kiss, PhD, warden of Rhodes House and CEO of the Rhodes Trust

How can young people who are passionate about environmental protection make an impact?

— Gao Shilan, a student from Shanghai Qibao Dwight High School

Although individual actions may seem insignificant, especially given that young people have relatively limited reach, the collective choices and decisions of individuals do have the potential to be magnified. In our increasingly connected and interdisciplinary world, it is no longer a requirement to study biology or natural sciences to make an impact. The important thing is to keep our environment in mind no matter what course of study you choose to undertake, so that the next generation can take collective actions across all sectors of society.

We must change our outlook from anxiety to one of determined optimism. It's true that the state of our world can look discouraging, but it's equally important to consider the successes that have already been achieved. To make an impact, the next generation must continue to learn, advocate, and act with hope and the belief that an active commitment to a better future will bring about that very result.

— Marco Lambertini, former international general director and special envoy of World Wide Fund for Nature International