Bridging the Gap Between Politics and Environmental Conservation
Bridging the Gap Between Politics and Environmental Conservation
Michelle Van Buuren
Over the past two days ISN Nice students attended the Nice Climate Summit. In an era where the fate of our planet hangs in the balance, the question of whether politics can truly save the environment resonates not only with the Humanities but also in the realms of Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Global Politics, Environmental Systems and Societies and Model United Nations (MUN). This vital question took centre stage at the Nice Climate Summit, an international event dedicated to biodiversity and climate.
The Nice Climate Summit, organized by the Metropolis of Nice Côte d’Azur, the City of Nice, Région Sud and La Tribune, marks a significant milestone in the global effort to combat climate change and protect biodiversity. The event took place over the last two days, September 28th and 29th, 2023, at the Palais de la Méditerranée in Nice, underscoring the pivotal role of cities in addressing these critical issues. ISN Nice was honoured to be listed as a supporter of the conference on the summit website.
For ISN students, this summit offered a unique opportunity to engage with global thought leaders and gain a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between politics and environmental preservation. It served as a platform for exploring how policy decisions at local, national, and international levels can influence the trajectory of climate change and the fate of Earth's biodiversity.
“This climate summit was very interesting. Although some good ideas have been talked about, as an ESS student I was not satisfied about the extent of determination politicians had. Their actions for the climate were good but limited”, Eva, Grade 12.
“It was two days of intense debates and answers from international stakeholders on climate issues. A recognition of the impact of humanity on our environment”, Jade, Grade 12.
Moreover, the summit's location in Nice holds special significance. Nice, an international city nestled at the crossroads of the Mediterranean Sea, was chosen by the United Nations to host the 3rd United Nations Conference about Oceans in June 2025 on behalf of France and Costa Rica. This choice highlights the city's unwavering commitment to crafting sustainable solutions against the consequences of climate change and safeguarding biodiversity. The Nice Climate Summit aligns with this commitment and reinforces the city's role as a leader in the fight against environmental degradation.
ISN students participating in the Nice Climate Summit had the opportunity to address Mr Poivre d’Arvor, Ambassador for Poles and Maritime Issues at the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs. During their discussion with him, they posed a number of questions including asking about Youth involvement in climate change, and whether sufficient action was being taken quickly enough. They also had the opportunity to engage with other stakeholders, including Madame l'adjointe Maty Diouf (Deputy Mayor of Nice, responsible for the fight against discrimination, women's rights, international solidarity and humanitarian action), Madame l'adjointe Christiane Amiel (Delegate for International Relations and Partnerships) and Mr. Robert Beugre Mambe (Minister Govenor of the Autonomous District of Abidjan).
"Student leaders such as Kit, Sophie, Lotta and Yago were extremely impressive and knowledgeable sharing their concerns with Ambassador Olivier Poivre d'Arvor and showed that the future is in good hands! We are so proud of them!"- Emily Morgan, Senior Lead for Student Engagement and Achievement.
As the ISN students engage with the pressing question of whether politics can save the planet, they are not only preparing themselves for a future where environmental challenges will loom large but also actively contributing to a global movement for a more sustainable and biodiverse world. The Nice Climate Summit allowed students to bring back valuable insights to their classrooms, enriching their experiences and, in addition, become informed, engaged, and responsible global citizens.
“The students clearly understand the importance of taking care of the environment considering the economy and the politics. The solutions are linked to the technology and the « prise de conscience » of all of us. How can we do better using less…” – Melanie Laroche, Science Coordinator and Sustainability and Eco School Coordinator.