Demographically, the youth group constitutes the majority of the world's population. Despite theirrnnumerical superiority, youth participation in developmental endeavors is very low. The major reasons forrnthis may be related to societal attitudes, socio-cultural and economic barriers, and lack of properrnorganization.rnThis research explores the constraints of urban youth participation in development activities particularlyrnin environmental protection activities in Dilla town. The research was conducted in the three kebels of therntown by using both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. The data collection methodsrnincluded field survey, in-depth interview and focus group discussions. The survey data was collected fromrn135 randomly sampled youths and 25 respondents, who were selected purposively as key informants.rnThe major challenges that are identified by the study include: limited knowledge of the youth as well asrnthe community on environmental problems and their solutions, absence of adult initiatives, lack ofrnsupport from formal and informal illstitutions, absence of strong youth organizations to encouragernparticipation of youth in environmental protection, lack of incentives, mismanagement of the youthrnorganization, lack of policy advocacy(such as youth policy, envirollmental policy etc) to creaternawareness, lack of holistic approach and the weak relationship between the youth and the localrnadmin istration.rnThe above challenges can be solved by giving due attentioll to this neglected part of the society in whomrnhuge potential for sustainable development is available. The youth participation in environmentalrnprotection programs should assure individual gains; awareness of their environment; acquiring andrnexchange of knowledge, values, skills, experiences that will enable them to act individually or collectivelyrnto solve present and future environmental problems. Promotion of strong youth organization andrnenvironmental clubs is of paramount importance. Communication strategies that are relevant to youth arernnecessmy if young people are to remain motivated and initiated. There has to be a paradigm shift in termsrnof how adults and the government think about youth. Plans should be shared openly with adult decisionmakersrnin intergenerational discussions.