Many of you will remember the fires we experienced here in the Staffordshire Moorlands a couple of years ago. Frightening and destructive though they were, they could not compare to the extensive fires experienced across Australia, and parts of Europe which devastated thousands of miles across these countries. Portugal has recently been badly hit by fires with smoke and temperatures reaching unbearable levels.
Six young people, who have lived through these record breaking heatwaves and unprecedented forest fires in their country, have experienced the deadly consequences that climate change has already brought. They, with the help of Youth for Climate Justice and Global Action Legal Network are taking thirty three European countries to Court. These young activists are:-
- Mariana who is 8 years old. Mariana cares about animals, she is already aware that the world wildlife is being harmed and wants to do something to help.
- Andre is 12, he cannot understand why those who are supposed to protect us are not doing so – he believes thatpo liticians must be made to protect us.
- Sofia is 15, she thinks climate change is scary but believes governments will do something if enough people act toprevent it.
- Martini is 17, he remembers the horror caused by devastating forest fires near his home. He believes he and others of his generation must force governments to make their future safe.
- Catarina is 20 and finds that where she lives, the extreme heat is making her region a more hostile place to live. She worries what will happen if governments don’t take action.
- Claudia is 21, as a trainee nurse, she is aware that Covid 19 has highlighted our vulnerability as human beings. She believes urgent action is needed to protect us.
Children and young people are putting pressure on our governments to act. We must take action too.
For photos and information about these young people, plus how to support their cause go to: Youth for Climate Justice