What are children saying about the climate crisis?
What do extreme heatwaves in Afghanistan, crop failures in Mali, destructive tropical cyclones in the Philippines, and record-breaking rain leading to mudslides in western Canada all have in common? Besides placing lives at risk and destroying homes and infrastructure, according to meteorologists, climate change is a key contributor.
At the recent COP26 climate summit in Glasgow, the UN brought together leaders of the world to discuss and reach agreements on tackling the climate crisis – an issue that has become a global priority.
At this year’s summit, leaders promised to include children and youth in discussions and decisions around the climate crisis. Unfortunately, that promise fell short.
Dorothy Kazombo Mwale, a youth climate activist from Malawi, said, “The fact that COP26 was not youth inclusive made it difficult for us to voice our thoughts and influence decisions that can bring about the outcome that we need.”
Though children were not included in the discussion around the climate crisis, they were able to express themselves through art at the COP26 summit. Youth from Asia participated in an art competition and used bold and vivid images to get their message out.
“Now more than ever, there is a need for environmentally friendly practices for the sake of the diverse creatures living on the earth.” Mayuko Miyahara
“My artwork tells when the environment is damaged and when the temperature is rising, and the air is polluted, animals like polar bears suffer the consequences and it is worrying.” Wang Junyi
“Global climate change makes us think a lot. In this picture, the Bengal Tiger is looking for greenery, wanting to get out of the prison-bound frame, because he can’t live there.” Mustofa Nurul Absar
The climate crisis is an ongoing concern for the condition of our planet and, more specifically a concern for the children of the world. Though children have contributed the least to climate change, they will ultimately pay the highest price. Their lives and futures are under threat, and their rights to a safe home, healthy environment, healthcare, food, and learning are at risk.
In a recent personal reflection on the climate crisis, Canadian and world-renowned environmentalist David Suzuki said, “One of the joys of being a grandparent is getting to see the world again through the eyes of a child.” The global community owes it to children to prioritize the climate crisis and ensure the world they grow up in is one they can truly enjoy.
Save the Children is committed to addressing the calls to action of children like Mayuko, Wang, and Mustofato, to world leaders and the global community. We must act now to safeguard their hopes and dreams for tomorrow.