Michael Scoullos, Team Leader of the EU-funded WES-BCA project, discusses how the initiative is advancing environmental protection, biodiversity restoration, and climate resilience across the Southern Neighbourhood. He highlights the opportunities available for young people to engage in climate action through the WES-BCA Mediterranean Community for Climate Action and shares his advice on the patience and perseverance needed to create lasting environmental change.

• What is  WES-BCA and what impact does it aim to achieve?

The EU funded “Water and Environment Support-Biodiversity and Climate Action (WES-BCA) in the Neighbourhood South region” project (2024 – 2027) aims to strengthen environmental protection, restore biodiversity, and improve the sustainable management of water resources. It also seeks to enhance climate resilience and reverse biodiversity loss across the Mediterranean region by supporting the development and implementation of sustainable development policies in the eight Partner Countries in the Middle East and North Africa, as well as within the two regional political frameworks: the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) and the Barcelona Convention. Working at all levels (from public administrations to local communities and citizens) WES-BCA promotes innovative approaches such as the reuse of treated wastewater, advances the circular economy, and addresses water, food, and energy security through the WEFE Nexus approach. Fully aligned with the Pact for the Mediterranean, the project represents a strong foundation for advancing the Pact’s environmental and sustainability objectives. WES-BCA is implemented through two complementary and mutually reinforcing components. Component I focuses on preventing and reducing pollution, tackling plastic pollution and marine litter, promoting the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus approach, improving water efficiency, supporting climate change mitigation and adaptation, addressing water scarcity, and protecting biodiversity. Component II focuses on communication and outreach, raising awareness and strengthening public understanding of climate and environmental challenges, with particular attention to young people and women, while encouraging more sustainable behaviours and greater engagement in climate action and environmental protection.

• What activities, initiatives or opportunities should young people know about?

Youth are a key target group under WES-BCA, particularly through Component II, which places strong emphasis on communication, outreach, and climate action. Young people already engaged in environmental and climate initiatives are important partners in extending the project’s reach and inspiring action within their communities. Across each Partner Country, national roundtables and workshops bring together CSOs, NGOs, media professionals, and youth to strengthen climate and environmental communication. Through these activities, alongside Component II’s digital campaign, young people are invited to join the WES-BCA Mediterranean Community for Climate Action. Centred around a dedicated online platform, the community provides a space for visibility, knowledge sharing, and practical outreach resources. WES-BCA aims to equip the next generation of climate advocates with the skills and opportunities to drive lasting change, contributing to the youth-focused ambitions of the Pact for the Mediterranean.

• What advice do you wish you had received at 20?

As a young, optimistic, and hard-working person, I wish someone had told me just how challenging it can be to work on public policies and strategies aimed at protecting the environment and advancing sustainable development across the Euro-Mediterranean region. Real change takes time, patience, and persistence but every small step contributes to a bigger impact. Stay committed, keep learning, and don’t lose sight of the difference your work can make. 

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