February 23, 2024 | ICLEI South Asia, Van Leer Foundation
Two groundbreaking studies presented at a workshop in Goa, India, on February 23, 2024, emphasized the need for inclusive urban development to protect young children (aged 0-5), caregivers, and pregnant women. These studies, conducted between January 2022 and December 2023, are the first of their kind in India and highlight the often-overlooked needs of these vulnerable groups. The studies, supported by the Van Leer Foundation, focused on "Young Children and Climate" and "Usage of Public Spaces by Young Children, their Caregivers and Pregnant Women."
The "Study on Young Children and Climate" analyzed the adverse effects of climate change and air pollution on young children and their caregivers in four Indian cities: Delhi, Gandhinagar, Kharagpur, and Roorkee. It found that while early childhood development (ECD) sites offer some protection, they still expose children to significant pollutants and excessive heat. The second study, spanning 18 diverse Indian cities, used household surveys to understand how young children and their caregivers use urban public spaces, revealing that these spaces are not being fully utilized due to various barriers.
The workshops, part of a series held in Guwahati, Kochi, and New Delhi, brought together stakeholders to brainstorm solutions and recommendations for creating climate-resilient and child-friendly public spaces. The studies outline actionable strategies, such as enhancing urban greenery, improving non-motorized transport to ECD sites, and integrating climate awareness into the educational framework for preschools. A 'Master checklist for Policymakers' was designed to guide effective climate action, emphasizing inclusivity, equitable policy development, and a holistic, multisectoral approach.
The findings underscore the urgent need for tailored climate policies that protect these vulnerable groups and highlight the importance of nature and public spaces in child development. The Van Leer Foundation and ICLEI South Asia are committed to implementing these guidelines and showcasing successful examples to inspire other cities.Two groundbreaking studies presented at a workshop in Goa, India, on February 23, 2024, emphasized the need for inclusive urban development to protect young children (aged 0-5), caregivers, and pregnant women. These studies, conducted between January 2022 and December 2023, are the first of their kind in India and highlight the often-overlooked needs of these vulnerable groups. The studies, supported by the Van Leer Foundation, focused on "Young Children and Climate" and "Usage of Public Spaces by Young Children, their Caregivers and Pregnant Women."
The "Study on Young Children and Climate" analyzed the adverse effects of climate change and air pollution on young children and their caregivers in four Indian cities: Delhi, Gandhinagar, Kharagpur, and Roorkee. It found that while early childhood development (ECD) sites offer some protection, they still expose children to significant pollutants and excessive heat. The second study, spanning 18 diverse Indian cities, used household surveys to understand how young children and their caregivers use urban public spaces, revealing that these spaces are not being fully utilized due to various barriers.
The workshops, part of a series held in Guwahati, Kochi, and New Delhi, brought together stakeholders to brainstorm solutions and recommendations for creating climate-resilient and child-friendly public spaces. The studies outline actionable strategies, such as enhancing urban greenery, improving non-motorized transport to ECD sites, and integrating climate awareness into the educational framework for preschools. A 'Master checklist for Policymakers' was designed to guide effective climate action, emphasizing inclusivity, equitable policy development, and a holistic, multisectoral approach.
The findings underscore the urgent need for tailored climate policies that protect these vulnerable groups and highlight the importance of nature and public spaces in child development. The Van Leer Foundation and ICLEI South Asia are committed to implementing these guidelines and showcasing successful examples to inspire other cities.