Greta Thunberg, 18 year-old climate and environmental activist, addressed the World Economic Forum on January 25, 2021 with a call for action to address the climate and ecological crisis. She reminded the world to not let future generations down and urged for policies that address the scale of the climate crisis. Greta is not alone. Young people from around the world have mobilized to demand greater action from leaders. Youth are using their voices to address today’s largest challenges—from COVID-19 to climate change—and demand transformational change through collective action.
Young people not only possess passion and ambition, but they offer diverse perspectives to drive solutions and can lead the paradigm shift necessary to tackle climate change. From organizing climate strikes and demanding policies that protect the environment to founding non-profits and educating their community on climate change, youth are not just talking the talk. Climate change activists are fighting for their future and the future of generations by taking action for people, planet, and prosperity.
To pave a path towards a sustainable future, it takes international collaboration and innovation across all key stakeholders, including youth. The power in action drives hope, as Greta mentioned, and can unite people around the world to come together for a shared cause.
Voices:
Analí Bustos is a Restoration Steward working on forest restoration, revaluation and conservation of the Espinal forest in the province of Córdoba, Argentina. “Over the last decade we are witnessing how human actions are impacting nature. I believe we all have a big responsibility and people can contribute with new ideas and change,” said Analí. She finds nature as a source of inspiration and describes her mission to work for nature’s health, which is also human health, and inspires other people to do so.