69. Young Climate Activists

Source: LA Times

We have all heard of Greta Thunberg, the 16-year-old Swedish founder of the Fridays for Future movement to urge the world leaders to take steps to save humanity’s future from climate change disasters. However, she is one of the many thousands of young climate activists who are inspiring students to walk out of class to talk about climate change issues. Youth-led climate activism has seen a tremendous rise since the last decade, and they have been successful in elevating climate change concerns. Indeed, the outrage expressed by the young leaders could drive a change in global norms.

From India to the USA, young people have been demanding greater action for climate change. When young leaders raise their voices against global issues, they are perceived as more credible. Critics point out that an international movement led by young climate change activists is not a solution. However, the fact that young activists are participating in initiatives can be considered as a wake-up call for humanity. Of course, who said, children are not allowed to raise their voice against global challenges? Climate change particularly is an issue that requires collective by everyone, irrespective of their age. However, the current wave of young activism must be transformed into an organized political movement. This will allow a greater momentum of change for the cause.

The main reason as to why students are coming out of their homes is a common belief among all of them. They believe that world leaders aren’t doing enough. They want their voices to reach the highest platforms. Hence we have Greta Thunberg speaking at UN’s Youth Climate Summit in New York and other activists taking part in the Global Climate Strike. We have other examples of young climate activists from all around the world such as Lesein Mutunkei from Kenya, Alexandria Villasenor from the US, Aditya Mukarji from India and Leah Namugerwa from Uganda.  Indeed, the climate change movement is in full force today.