OPINION: Engaging children for a greener future

June 2023. Nairobi’s skies grow hazy with indolence, contoured by the smog and smoke of industry's breath.

Down below, on its littered earth, haggling by children on playgrounds is at its peak, under the gloom of the shadowy sky. Rivers, once pristine and swooshing with life, are now a dark concentrate of filth, bearing witness to the toll of negligence.

Around the world, extreme weather and air pollution is putting millions of children’s lives in danger. As the world deals with the consequences of environmental degradation, it is increasingly clear that engaging young minds is crucial for building a sustainable future.

Children under the age of five bear the brunt of the global disease burden caused by climate change, with UNICEF estimating it to be around 88 percent.

“We all have the right to enjoy our planet and we should all protect that right. Our generation is trying to prevent climate change for future generations", shares Carlos Manuel, a 16 -year-old pupil.  His words encapsulate the essence of the awakening occurring among children in Kenya, who are stepping up as advocates for a greener future.

Education catalyzes change and empowers young minds to take action. By integrating environmental education and establishing Environmental Clubs into the curriculum, we equip children with the tools and understanding needed to tackle the challenges of climate change head-on.

As the 2050 Climate Resolution emphasizes, education is key to building a sustainable future for all.

"I learned that even the smallest actions, like turning off lights or using reusable bags, can make a difference. I now share what I learn with my family and friends," says Imani Wangu, a 9-year-old environmental enthusiast. Her words highlight the ripple effect that education can have, as children become ambassadors of change within their communities.

Theory alone cannot spark the transformative change we seek. It is through experiential learning and hands-on engagement that children truly grasp the impact of their actions.

By organizing visits to national parks, forests, and protected areas, as well as providing waste management training, we expose children to the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.

The sound of birds, the smell of flowers, the wind blowing through the trees, these experiences foster a deep connection to the environment and inspire a sense of responsibility to protect and conserve it.

"When I saw the elephants in the wild, I realized that we needed to protect them and their home. I want to be a wildlife conservationist and make sure other children can see them too," shares Mwende Kingori, a 13-year-old nature enthusiast. Her words reflect the deep impact that firsthand experiences can have. 

By engaging children in the climate change conversation, we are not only nurturing their minds but also sowing the seeds of a sustainable legacy. By empowering children like Carlos, Imani, and Mwende to become environmental advocates, we cultivate a generation that places the preservation of our planet at the forefront of their aspirations.

Through their newfound knowledge, children become agents of change, leading by example and inspiring others to follow suit. By instilling a sense of responsibility and a deep connection to the environment, we are raising a generation of environmental stewards who will shape policies, drive innovation, and make sustainable choices that protect our planet. 

"In the face of climate change, there is no room for complacency. We must engage children in the climate change conversation. As Nelson Mandela once said, 'Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.' By empowering children with education and awareness, we empower them to be catalysts for positive change in the battle against climate change."