Stars and STEM Stories
GLOBE Israel: A Youth Conference Empowers Student Innovators
On 27 March 2025, Israel hosted its first-ever Youth
Climate Conference at Ben-Gurion University. This groundbreaking event
marked a major milestone in engaging young minds in environmental
action, bringing together students, educators, scientists, and
policymakers for a day of innovation, learning, and collaboration.
Out of numerous submissions from schools across the country, 30 outstanding student-led projects were selected to be presented at the conference. The selection process emphasized innovation, feasibility, and potential impact on real-world environmental challenges.
The conference featured inspiring academic lectures from leading experts. Prof. Shimon Rahmilovich offered insights into current global climate trends. Tamar Zandberg, former minister of environmental protection and head of the National Institute for Climate and Environmental Policy, addressed the importance of environmental policies. Gideon Behar, Israel’s minister of foreign affairs, shared a diplomatic view on international climate action.
Also in attendance was GLOBE Israel Country Coordinator
Refaela Babish. She participated alongside the national GLOBE training
team, emphasizing the vital role of youth participation in
environmental science.
The diverse range of student projects tackled pressing environmental issues using a wide variety of scientific approaches. Many students employed field observations, data collection using environmental sensors, GIS mapping, climate modeling tools, remote sensing, and AI-based analysis to support their findings.
Among the most compelling initiatives were:
- A project on urban renewable energy solutions, offering innovative ways to integrate solar and wind power into city infrastructure
- Marine conservation efforts, focusing on Mediterranean biodiversity and sustainable coastal practices
- A creative plan to generate green electricity by harnessing water flow in existing sewage systems; this innovative approach aims to reduce reliance on polluting fossil fuels by using an untapped resource and existing infrastructure
- An initiative from agricultural students proposing a dual-use greenhouse system that combines vegetable cultivation with solar energy production, addressing concerns about land scarcity and food security
- An innovative approach integrating nanorobots into irrigation systems for real-time plant monitoring, precise fertilization, and water purification
- A community-centered proposal to combat water scarcity and energy waste in Bedouin communities through advanced rainwater harvesting systems paired with solar water heaters, tailored to local needs
A standout among the presentations was a GLOBE Program initiative by female students from the Baptist High School in Nazareth. Their project tackled urban heat island effects and proposed:
- Installing vertical gardens to expand shaded areas in dense urban environments
- Using cool roofs made of reflective materials to reduce indoor temperatures
- Organizing community tree-planting campaigns in heat-prone neighborhoods
This project received high praise from experts and policymakers for its practical and scalable solutions. Environmental professionals highlighted that urban heat mitigation is increasingly critical in Israel’s climate. The students’ thoughtful, data-backed approach was met with admiration and support.
In recognition of their achievements, the students were invited to present their environmental recommendations to the president of Israel on 27 May 2025. This prestigious opportunity reflects the national importance of youth-led initiatives. The students expressed excitement and a deep sense of responsibility, acknowledging that their voices are now part of the country's highest decision-making forums.
“The success of the conference signals the rise of a
youth-led [environmental] movement in Israel. By empowering students
to become innovators, researchers, and advocates, the event fostered
leadership and long-term commitment to sustainability. It also
strengthened collaboration between schools, universities, and
government agencies,” says Refaela Babish.
Given the overwhelming positive response, organizers plan to establish the Youth Climate Conference as an annual event. The Ministry of Education, Ben-Gurion University, and environmental organizations are exploring long-term partnerships to ensure the continued growth and impact of this transformative initiative.
Learn more about GLOBE Israel.
Story and photos courtesy of Refaela Babish