A historic Year, in every sense

2024, a year of resilience and youth leadership
Blog

How can a single year send such clear signs of a “before and after” in the way we understand and navigate nature, climate, and the challenges that come with them? My name is Francisco Lara. I’m an Advisor for The Iris Project based in Costa Rica, working in the intersections of Climate Change with various aspects of life, recognized as one of the 100 Latinos Most Committed to Climate Action. This year, I had the privilege of representing our organization and serving as the Head of Delegation for Sustainable Ocean Alliance Hispanic America at the CBD COP16.

2024 was marked by a series of historic events in these fields. For the first time since the adoption of the Paris Agreement, we saw temperatures surpass 1.5°C, alongside unprecedented natural disasters—what I would consider human-caused disasters. During the final stretch of the year, the three Rio Conventions took place: Biodiversity, Climate Change, and Desertification.

Image: Francisco at COP16
Image: Francisco at COP16

I thought this momentum would increase the sense of urgency and finally lead to the mobilization of resources for the countries and people most vulnerable to the climate crisis. Yet, we still fell short of the finance goal and the minimum needs required for nations to work against the clock. Global leaders failed, but civil society didn’t. We were present where decisions were being discussed and agreed upon, and we remain here, advocating and standing for what is right and necessary. The journey has not been easy, but the determination, courage, and confidence of young leaders worldwide have proven there is a future worth fighting for. Through the power of people, we continue to move forward with optimism.

This year, as climate disasters unfolded in every corner of the world and multilateralism struggled to meet its targets, youth showed the way. From Guatemala to Sierra Leone, innovators, leaders, and scientists have told the world: “Hey, take a look—this is how things are done!” We had the privilege to learn from them, listen to their challenges and strategies for overcoming them, and witness how trusting those who find challenging to access funding can expand and scale solutions. This trust inspires others to believe and act as well.

Image: Francisco at COP16

For our organization, 2024 was equally transformative. We received an unprecedented number of project applications for The Iris Prize, underscoring two urgent priorities: increasing resources for youth-led initiatives to close funding gaps and adopting trust-based approaches to empower those already driving effective solutions. These steps are vital in addressing the triple planetary crises of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.

As a three-year-old organization, we have much to celebrate. We are youth-led, mentoring others, and fostering the ambition needed to protect and restore nature. Our work is guided by the legacy of Iris Goldsmith, whose passion for the environment lives on in the dedication of our prize winners. Their care for their surroundings, their communities, and the natural world reflects the same deep love for nature that Iris embodied. 

At our core, the Advisory Panel works tirelessly. Whether they are negotiating ambitious climate agreements on behalf of their nations, advising through their organizations, amplifying underrepresented voices in decision-making spaces, or implementing impactful actions locally, their efforts inspire confidence that our generation possesses the determination and capability to create meaningful change. 

Image: Francisco at COP16

2024 was historic not only for its crises but for the resilience and leadership of youth, who showed the world a path forward grounded in love, solidarity, and determination. 

Advocating for and protecting nature is a lifelong journey. It becomes truly fulfilling when you find like-minded individuals—those who inspire you and walk this path alongside you. 

We are here to walk this path with you.

Iris Prize 2024

Applications are now open.