Applications are open for motivated young leaders to join the Youth Plastic Action Network (YPAN) Interim Coordination Team. This opportunity is designed for youth who are passionate about addressing plastic pollution and eager to contribute to a growing global movement dedicated to shaping a fair and effective plastics treaty.

About YPAN

YPAN is a newly forming global youth constituency created to ensure that young people have a meaningful and consistent voice in the development and long-term implementation of the UN Plastics Treaty. The initiative is supported by the Children and Youth Major Group (CYMG) to UNEP and over 30 UN-accredited organizations.

The network aims to build a space where young people can influence discussions, bring forward community perspectives, and help shape policy solutions through the treaty’s negotiation stages and future COPs.

Focus Areas

Throughout its development, YPAN will work to:

• Strengthen youth participation during INC sessions and negotiations.

• Maintain youth engagement during the implementation phase of the plastics treaty.

• Provide training, coordination, and advocacy support for young people working across the plastics lifecycle and broader environmental governance.

YPAN’s vision is clear: to nurture a generation of young leaders who not only participate in global processes, but actively help shape them.

About the Interim Coordination Team (ICT)

The Interim Coordination Team will guide YPAN during its first six months. This foundational phase will include the development of YPAN’s governance, structures, policies, and decision-making approaches.

Instead of recruiting for fixed roles, the ICT will be formed based on the skills, experience, interests, and availability of each selected member.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the development of YPAN’s long-term governance system.

• Lead consultations with young people, partners, and stakeholders.

• Coordinate youth engagement across regions and thematic areas.

• Collaborate closely with CYMG, youth networks, and UN-accredited organizations.

• Help establish and co-lead emerging thematic working groups.

• Ensure inclusivity, transparency, and youth-centered approaches throughout the process.

At the end of the six-month mandate, roles may evolve into permanent leadership positions or transition into new elected or appointed roles, depending on the governance model agreed upon.

Applicants may express interest in multiple thematic or regional areas. Working groups will be shaped after the ICT is formed.

Working Framework

Until YPAN’s own governance model is finalized, the team will operate under the Terms of Reference of the Children and Youth Major Group to UNEP.

ToR reference:
(As provided in the original announcement)

Additional Information

• Time Commitment: ~3 hours per week, with occasional higher engagement during treaty negotiations or consultations.

• Onboarding: Selected members will receive support and orientation from current interim leaders.

• Not Selected? Those not chosen for the ICT will still be able to support YPAN through consultations and other engagement opportunities.

Don't miss out on the application deadline which is 2 December 2025, 23:59 UTC.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity.