As part of the EUdemos project, high school student Emiliano Forassiepi from Pisa offers a bold and inspiring roadmap for the European Union to become a global leader in climate action, social equity, and youth participation. His essay, “The EU That I Want”, puts forward concrete proposals to build a future that is sustainable, inclusive, and youth-driven.
1. A Unified and Ambitious Climate Policy
Emiliano calls for a coordinated EU-wide approach to climate change that replaces fragmented national strategies. His proposals include:
- A legally binding 65% emissions reduction target by 2030
- A shared European renewable energy grid
- A stronger carbon border adjustment mechanism
- Green incentives for sustainable business transitions
These measures would strengthen energy independence and fairness while aligning with the 1.5°C Paris Agreementgoal.
2. Green Jobs and Youth Employment
The transition to a climate-neutral economy must also create opportunities for young people. Emiliano proposes:
- A Green Youth Employment Program
- Support for youth-led green startups
- Erasmus+ internships and exchanges focused on sustainability
- Incentives for hiring young talent in green sectors
These ideas link climate goals with youth inclusion in the labor market.
3. Sustainable and Accessible Mobility
Transport is a major emitter, and young Europeans are demanding change. Emiliano suggests:
- Affordable high-speed railacross Europe
- A Youth Green Travel Pass
- More car-free citiesand bike-friendly infrastructure
- Support for low-carbon commuting options
These changes would reduce emissions while improving quality of life in European cities.
4. Climate Justice and Social Equity
A fair green transition must support vulnerable communities. Emiliano advocates for:
- An expanded Social Climate Fund
- Priority access to renewable energy for low-income households
- Legal and policy recognition for climate refugees
- Strengthening community-led sustainability initiatives
This vision aligns environmental action with human rights and equity.
5. Youth in Climate Decision-Making
Emiliano emphasizes that young people must have a seat at the table. He proposes:
- A permanent European Youth Climate Council
- Youth representationin national climate bodies
- A youth referendum mechanismon climate policies
- Regular dialogue platforms with EU policymakers
These ideas elevate youth from protest to policymaking.
6. Education for a Green Future
Education is key to long-term change. Emiliano calls for:
- Mandatory climate educationat all school levels
- More funding for university-led climate research
- Support for citizen and youth-led sustainability projects
- Investment in digital toolsto educate about climate solutions
This pillar ensures that future generations are empowered to act.
7. A Circular and Sustainable Economy
Finally, Emiliano outlines a vision for a zero-waste, ethical economy:
- Ban on single-use plastics
- Widespread repair and recycling programs
- Support for sustainable fashionand ethical consumption
- Incentives for eco-friendly production
A circular economy would redefine growth around durability, responsibility, and regeneration.
Conclusion: A Green, Just, Youth-Led Europe
“We do not merely demand change—we are ready to be part of the solution.”
Emiliano’s essay shows that young Europeans are prepared, informed, and committed. The EU he envisions is green, just, and democratic—and youth are not just observers, but co-architects of its future.
“Emiliano Forassiepi 4BTA
IIS DAVINCI FASCETTI
The EU That I Want: Youth Proposals for a Sustainable Future
The climate crisis is the defining challenge of our generation. As young people, we are witnessing firsthand the devastating effects of environmental degradation—rising temperatures, extreme weather events, biodiversity loss, and growing social inequalities. The European Union has made significant strides through the Green Deal and climate policies, but the path ahead requires even bolder action, with youth playing a pivotal role in shaping the future.
- A Unified and Ambitious Climate Policy
One of the greatest obstacles in the EU’s climate strategy is the lack of coordination among member states. Instead of a patchwork of national efforts, we need a strong, unified climate policy that prioritizes:
- A legally binding EU-wide emissions reduction target of at least 65% by 2030 to remain within 1.5°C of warming.
- A single European renewable energy grid, ensuring energy independence and efficiency through shared resources.
- A strengthened carbon border adjustment mechanism to prevent carbon leakage and maintain global competitiveness in a sustainable economy.
- Enhanced incentives for businesses transitioning to sustainable production models.
- Green Jobs and Youth Employment
The transition to a climate-neutral economy must generate opportunities for young people, rather than cause economic instability. We propose:
- A Green Youth Employment Program to provide training and jobs in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and climate technology.
- Greater investment in entrepreneurial initiatives led by young innovators in green industries.
- Expansion of the Erasmus+ program to include climate-focused internships and research exchanges across the EU.
- Incentives for businesses to employ young professionals in sustainability-related sectors.
- Sustainable and Accessible Mobility
Transport is a major contributor to Europe’s carbon footprint. Young Europeans advocate for:
- Affordable, high-speed rail networks connecting all major European cities to replace short-haul flights.
- A European Youth Green Travel Pass, making sustainable transport more accessible.
- Incentives for cities to develop car-free zones, improving air quality and urban living.
- Increased investment in bike-friendly infrastructure to promote eco-friendly commuting.
- Climate Justice and Social Equity
A just transition is crucial to ensuring no one is left behind in the fight against climate change. This includes:
- Expanding the Social Climate Fund to shield vulnerable communities from rising energy costs.
- Ensuring that low-income households benefit first from renewable energy investments.
- Recognizing climate refugees and implementing EU-wide policies to support displaced populations due to environmental crises.
- Strengthening community-led initiatives that promote environmental justice and sustainability.
- A Stronger Role for Youth in Climate Decision-Making
Young people must have a direct say in policies that shape their future. We propose:
- A permanent European Youth Climate Council, advising the European Commission and Parliament.
- Mandatory youth representation in all national climate policymaking bodies.
- A youth climate referendum mechanism, allowing young Europeans to propose and vote on key climate policies.
- Establishing platforms for young voices to engage directly with policymakers on climate issues.
- Education for a Green Future
Climate education must be a fundamental right for all European students. We advocate for:
- Mandatory climate and sustainability education in all schools, from primary to university level.
- Increased funding for climate research and innovation led by universities and young scientists.
- Greater support for citizen-led climate initiatives to engage local communities in sustainability efforts.
- Enhanced investment in digital learning tools to educate youth on climate science and solutions.
- A Circular and Sustainable Economy
To transition towards a fully sustainable future, Europe must embrace a circular economy by:
- Phasing out single-use plastics and promoting reusable alternatives.
- Expanding repair and recycling programs across all member states.
- Encouraging sustainable fashion and ethical consumption practices.
- Incentivizing businesses to adopt zero-waste and eco-friendly production methods.
Conclusion: The EU That We Want
The European Union stands at a turning point. The decisions made today will shape the future of millions of young Europeans. We do not merely demand change—we are ready to be part of the solution. By implementing ambitious policies, prioritizing social justice, and ensuring youth leadership, the EU can become a global model for tackling climate change while fostering a fair and prosperous future for all.
The EU we envision is green, just, and youth-driven. Now is the time to make it a reality.
