On June 16, the opening ceremony of the 2025 China-US Youth Future Climate Leadership Exchange Program (YCLP) was held at Guangdong University of Technology (GDUT). Forty-seven students from China and the US gathered in Guangdong for a 7-day program focused on collaborative climate action.
2025 China-US Youth Future Climate Leadership Exchange Program (YCLP) held at Guangdong University of Technology (GDUT)
This initiative coincided with the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Deepening Green Development Cooperation between Guangdong Province and California, as well as the MOU between the Department of Ecology and Environment of Guangdong Province and the California-China Climate Institute.
An opening ceremony hosted to mark the launch of 2025 China-US Youth Future Climate Leadership Exchange Program (YCLP)
Young people from China and the United States will visit enterprises, schools, communities, and parks in Guangzhou and Foshan to research green and low-carbon transformation while also experiencing Cantonese culture and cuisine.
They will explore climate action and sustainability initiatives in Guangdong through field research. Through discussions with research institutions and climate experts, the program seeks to cultivate climate awareness and problem-solving capabilities among youth from both nations, harnessing their energy to combat the global climate crisis.
Student delegates clap while enjoying a street dance performance by Chinese students
Elisa Halma from Yo San University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Los Angeles expressed profound enthusiasm about her first visit to China. "I couldn't be happier or prouder to join this initiative," she stated, noting that participants were already forming meaningful connections. Emphasizing the program's global significance, Halma asserted: "We share one world and one Earth - at this critical time of worldwide challenges, unity isn't optional but essential." She anticipates that the exchange will yield "fruitful outcomes socially, economically, and culturally."
Another participant, Kevin Mustain, a biology major from the University of Washington in Seattle, outlined how he plans to integrate environmental studies into his scientific training. "While many peers focus on medical careers," he observed, "this program offers crucial climate perspectives that I'll be bringing back to my academic community."
He also highlighted the value of cross-cultural engagement, saying he looks forward to collaborative projects while "learning from international peers." He concluded: "The blend of meaningful work and genuine cultural exchange makes this truly special."
Students from both sides join in an ice-breaking game at the opening ceremony
The program highlights Guangdong's economic leadership and environmental progress, including 10 years of compliant air quality and leading carbon intensity reduction in China. Through expert discussions and immersive activities, students will gain practical climate strategies while experiencing Guangdong's path towards sustainable development.
Reporter: Guo Zedong
Photo: Liang Zijian
Editor: Yuan Zixiang, James, Shen He
