This will be a session between South Asia groups, a space to network and come together as a Sangam; aimed at creating a South Asia level forum on radical alternatives.

Vikalp Sangam (VS)  is process   that emerged in India out of a search for grounded alternatives to the current model of ‘development’ that is built  on ecological destruction and rising inequalities (See https://vikalpsangam.org/about-us/). It is a platform where people meet, collaborate, reflect on
their experiences and knowledge, document inspiring stories of transformation, and enable shared learning, envisioning of,
and advocacy towards a just and ecologically conscious society. 
For more on the key elements and principles inspiring the VS process, please see https://vikalpsangam.org/article/the-
search-for-radical-alternatives-key-elements-and-principles/

By focusing on showcasing the socio-economic and environmental challenges like land grabbing and pollution, it aims to bring attention to these issues and promote dialogue and actions towards a solution. The visit also intends to highlight sustainable alternatives such as agro-ecology, permaculture, and agro-tourism, showcasing practical solutions that can contribute to a more sustainable future in the mountain setting.
Furthermore, the excursion aims to foster meaningful multilogue and camaraderie leading to future collaborations. It should connect like-minded individuals/organizations and create a platform for exchanges, and sharing of knowledge and experiences, for a more just and sustainable world.

We take for granted that cars are a necessary tool to move around. What we forget is that cars as the center of mobility did not happen by accident, but rather was a deliberate ploy by car companies to force people into car ownership. The results include the climate crisis, environmental pollution, social isolation, and many diseases as well as car crashes, among others.

Just as “Another World is Possible”, so too another transport system is possible, one that would restore our environments and communities, as well as saving us vast amounts of time, space, and money. Join us in this workshop to consider how we are fooled by the car industry (and its friends, the fuel and road-building industries) and how we can regain our freedom…and our lives.

In this interactive workshop, participants will be given a budget which they can decide to spend. As individuals, they can choose to spend thousands of dollars a year on a car, or invest it in other things; as governments, they can invest billions of dollars into car-based infrastructure or spend it on health, education, social welfare, environmental restoration, etc.

Note to CCA organizers: We can also discuss how South Asia and the rest of the Majority World are doing much better in terms of sustainable mobility than are the US/Canada/Australia.

Talk about how capitalism plays out in transport systems: people exist to buy corporate goods, in this case cars and motorbikes; we have horrible public transit and walking and cycling infrastructure due to the need to pressure people to buy cars to feed into economic growth.

The point we hope for the participants to walk away with is that cars are central to the problems in our lives; car-free cities are a practical and necessary solution to the climate crisis, pollution, poor health, social isolation, etc.

We could give everyone Monopoly money and have facilitators selling cars, bicycles, etc., and let people decide how to allocate their money. And then discuss how we are turned into consumers, not citizens, and sustainable mobility is a form of rebellion against corporate control/capitalism.

Human Rights Defenders and Environmental Defenders will share their journey and experiences.

Description:

Join us for an engaging program about placemaking – a powerful approach to shaping public spaces that reflect the needs and dreams of the community. This program is for everyone interested in making their local spaces more lively, inclusive, and joyful.

What You Will Learn:

1. Understanding Placemaking: We'll start with what placemaking is and why it matters. You'll learn how it helps in creating spaces that bring people together and make communities stronger.

2. Global Movement: Discover how people around the world are using placemaking to improve their cities and towns. We'll share inspiring stories and examples from different countries.

3. Getting Involved: Find out how you can be a part of this exciting movement. We'll guide you on joining networks, starting projects, and connecting with others who share your passion.

4. Tools and Techniques: We'll give you practical tips and ideas on how to start placemaking projects. This includes working with others in your community and using simple, creative methods to transform spaces.

5. Benefits for Your Community: Learn how placemaking can help your community economically and environmentally. We'll talk about how good public spaces can create jobs, attract visitors, and make neighborhoods healthier and safer.

6. Respecting Culture: Understand the importance of including your community's unique culture and history in your placemaking projects.

7. Interactive Learning: Be part of workshops and discussions where you can share your ideas and learn from others. This is a great chance to meet people from all over the world who are also interested in making their communities better.

Who Should Attend:

This program is for anyone interested in community development, urban planning, or just making their neighborhood a better place. Whether you're new to placemaking or already involved in local projects, there's something here for you.

Join us to explore how we can shape our public spaces together for a better, more connected world.

South Asia and broader Asia, with their diverse ecosystems and densely populated regions, are particularly vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change. Recognising this, the Asian youth have always been at the forefront to ensure climate justice in the region. 

The "Asian Youth for Climate Justice" session is a dynamic platform that aims to shed light on the pivotal role played by the youth in Asia in championing climate justice both within their local communities and on the global stage. This session seeks to explore the multifaceted efforts and initiatives undertaken by Asian youth, showcasing their commitment to environmental sustainability and their active involvement in addressing climate change challenges.

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by youth in the Asia region, the session will also address the obstacles hindering their efforts. Whether it be limited resources, systemic barriers, or societal norms, understanding and acknowledging these challenges is crucial in formulating effective strategies for climate action. 

Furthermore, the session will foster discussions on creating a more cooperative space within the region. By exploring avenues for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and joint initiatives, participants will collectively brainstorm ways to amplify the impact of their efforts and effect positive change at both local and global levels. 

Objectives

• To amplify Asian youths activists voices to closer Asia Regional wide climate movement
• To build foundations and network with 350 Asia’s initiatives - Asia Solidarity Lab and Asia Network Council
• To explore possible partnership on climate change with intersectionality lens toward Road toward COP30 Brazil
• To identify common challenges faced by Asian youth and find feasible solutions
• To build a synergy between relevant stakeholders of the region
• To identify methods of collaborative approach towards the climate justice movement in the region