2024 UN Junior Ambassador Program Journey – Interntaional Implementation
2024 UN Junior Ambassador Program’s final destination: China, where we conducted the implementation service learning portion of the UN Junior Ambassador Summer Training Program.
Our journey took us to Yuanyang, Yunnan—a region known for its ancient Water Terraces, a place with a history that dates back over 1,000 years. This area is a testament to the resilience of the minority populations who settled there long ago. The synergy between the mountains, forests, people, and water has created a unique environment that remains largely unaffected by climate change.
The water system here is remarkable: moisture builds up under heavy clouds, and winds carry it to the higher mountains. The forests and mountains help retain this moisture, resulting in abundant rainfall during the summer. Additionally, natural underground water reserves and numerous dams situated on the mountains ensure that there are no drought issues, providing more than enough water for both the people and agriculture.
The simplicity of life, the year-round greenery, and the rich cultural heritage have all contributed to Yuanyang being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Our research in Yuanyang has yielded valuable insights that can be applied to real-world challenges. For instance, we explored how maintaining moisture under cloud cover and understanding the role of wind as a natural carrier could benefit regions facing heat waves and water scarcity. Additionally, our team studied the possibility of directing clouds towards the ocean to reduce the heat they hold. These findings provide a foundation for meaningful policy development, particularly for countries suffering from increased heat and dwindling water supplies.
