Climate Change: A Teenager’s Perspective

Written by UNICEF Canada Youth Advocate Zaran, 15 from Ontario

The world is changing, and not in a good way. As a teenager growing up, I slowly saw the environment around us changing. It's not just about ice caps melting or sea levels rising; it is about the impact on our everyday lives. Climate change isn't an abstract idea but a fact that touches everyone.

The New Normal

Recall those peaceful summer times when we were free to play outside without any concern about the air being clean. Those days are getting lost. Now, smog alerts are as common as text message notifications. The air feels denser, and the sun appears to be more fierce. It's as if Mother Nature is sending us a not-so-subtle message: "You messed up, kids."

The Vanishing Seasons

When I was a child, I adored the four seasons. Spring meant cherry blossoms and muddy puddles. Summer was all about ice cream trucks and playing outside in long daylight hours. The fall had air that was crisp and leaves with colours, winter brought fights using snowballs as well as warm sweaters. But now, the differences in seasons could be clearer. Spring feels like a cold summer and fall is just a long summertime. Winter? Well, it's more like a slushy mess.

The Wildlife

In the past, I wanted to be a marine biologist. I would picture myself swimming with dolphins and studying coral reefs. Yet today, I read about bleached corals and oceans full of plastic. Our wildlife is suffering-polar bears are left on shrinking ice, bees vanishing, and forests going up in flames. It's sad. I'm a teenager and I feel powerless, but I do know that we have to do something.

Tips for Canadian Youth

1. All hope is not lost, and as a youth advocate I have a few tips for young people in Canada:
2. Educate Yourself: Don't rely solely on school textbooks. Dive into documentaries, follow environmental blogs, and attend local workshops. Knowledge empowers us to make informed choices.
3. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: It's a cliché, but it matters. Carry a reusable water bottle, say no to plastic bags, and recycle diligently. Small actions add up.
4. Speak Up: We might not have voting rights yet, but our voices matter. Attend climate rallies, write letters to politicians, and demand change. Social media isn't just for selfies; use it to raise awareness.
5. Plant Trees: Trees are our allies. Organize tree-planting events with friends. Imagine the impact if every young person in Canada planted a tree!
6. Support Sustainable Brands: When shopping, choose companies that prioritize the environment. Vote with your wallet-it's more powerful than you think.
7. Conserve Energy: Turn off lights when you leave a room, unplug chargers, and use energy-efficient appliances. Our planet will thank you.
8. Explore Nature: Go hiking, camping, or birdwatching. Connect with the outdoors-it'll deepen your appreciation for our fragile planet.

At 16 years of age, I've observed and experienced enough to understand that climate change is not a faraway issue - it's our present situation. Let us become the generation which alters this course. We may lack capes, but we possess passion, resolve and an earthly home we all share. Let's protect it, one conscious choice at a time.

This is a guest author post. The opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect UNICEF Canada or UNICEF policy.

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