Tag / climate action

by Champions for Change

Can Kids Change the World? Yes, They Can! 🌍💪

In today’s post we offer support for educators to empower young minds to tackle natural disasters.

In a world where natural disasters seem ever more frequent and severe, it’s easy to feel powerless. But history tells us a different story—a story where even the smallest voices can make the loudest echoes. Let’s dive into how young changemakers can spearhead initiatives for natural disaster preparedness and resilience.

Youth Power: Changing the Climate of Opinion 🌱☀️

Remember the Slip, Slop, Slap campaign?

 

Or how a single voice like Greta Thunberg’s can rally millions for climate action? These examples show us the power of youth-led campaigns in bringing about tangible changes.

 

The Blueprint for Action 📝🌈

Through engaging activities, students can explore how they too can become agents of change. By studying successful campaigns, students learn the ingredients for impactful action: passion, persistence, and the power of a united community.

Sparking Ideas, Igniting Action 🔥🚀

Embrace the journey of empowering young minds to tackle the challenges of natural disasters. By understanding the past and present, we inspire a generation of innovators ready to shape a sustainable future.

Here are some examples of successful youth led initiatives

  1. Youth Influencing Climate Action: This initiative showcases youth-led initiatives driving real solutions for a sustainable future. Young people are becoming catalysts for change in the face of enormous climate change issues. They are at the forefront of building a sustainable future with cutting-edge technology and circular economic models1.
  2. Youth Climate Action Challenge: This program is part of the Global Shapers Community, a network of activists who are leading initiatives in their communities to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals2.
  3. COPE: This initiative focuses on helping children and youth prepare for disasters. It aims to discuss complex topics like climate change with children and explain the recent increase of heat waves, the rise of wildfires, or the melting of the polar ice caps3.
  4. SEED: Australia’s first Indigenous youth ­led climate network. Seed are building a movement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people for climate justice with a vision for a just and sustainable future with strong cultures and communities, powered by renewable energy.

These campaigns are empowering young minds to tackle the challenges of natural disasters and climate change, inspiring them to shape a sustainable future. They are harnessing the strength of youth to promote climate action and protect the environment1.

Here are some more successful campaigns that students can study to understand the ingredients for impactful action:

  1. #Home2V8te: Student unions in the UK contributed to the campaign to legalize abortion in Ireland by offering financial support to students so they could travel home to vote1.
  2. Saving Bursaries: This campaign originated at Bristol University where students spoke out against plans to cut bursaries that helped students fund their studies. The campaign spread nationwide and resulted in bursaries being increased1.
  3. Period Poverty: Undergraduate student Rosy Candlin founded the organization Every Month, which donates 250 menstrual packs a month to food banks, aiming to end period poverty1.
  4. Going Green: Students around the world are campaigning to reduce their universities’ environmental impact. In the US, the 100 Percent Renewable Campuses campaign has had great results, encouraging Cornell and Boston University to buy energy from renewable sources1.

These campaigns demonstrate the power of passion, persistence, and a united community in driving change. By studying these examples, students can gain insights into how to plan and execute their own successful campaigns.

Tools for the Journey 🛠️🌟

  • National Geographic’s Guide to Natural Disasters: Learn about natural disasters and how they affect our world. Explore here
  • Australian Emergency Management Knowledge Hub: A treasure trove of resources on managing disasters. Discover more

Let’s Make a Difference Together 🤝💖

Remember, every big change starts with a small step. By equipping our young learners with the knowledge and tools to tackle these issues, we’re paving the way for a safer, more resilient future.

#YouthInAction, #DisasterPreparedness, #Changemakers, #FutureLeaders

by Champions for Change

Why Aren’t We Listening? Unpacking Apathy Towards Natural Disaster Preparedness 🌪️💧🔥

Are we turning a deaf ear to nature’s warnings? Recent surveys reveal a startling truth: 60% of people don’t believe they’re at risk from natural disasters, and a mere 13% have prepared an emergency plan. It’s a wake-up call we can’t ignore! 🚨👀

Despite the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, there’s a surprising level of apathy towards natural disaster preparedness. But why? Is it denial, a lack of information, or the assumption that “it won’t happen to me”? 🤷‍♀️🤷‍♂️

Let’s dive deep! Our communities are facing the brunt of natural disasters, with one in three Aussies worried about being forced to relocate permanently due to extreme weather. Moreover, two in five have already moved or know someone who has because of such calamities. The impact is real, and it’s widespread. 🏡🌊

Why the Apathy?

Apathy can stem from various sources – misunderstanding the risks, previous experiences, or even information overload leading to desensitisation. It’s a complex web of psychology and circumstance that we need to untangle. 🕸️🧠

Breaking the Cycle

Education and engagement are key. We need to shift the narrative from distant possibility to imminent reality. It’s not about instilling fear but fostering a culture of readiness and resilience. Together, we can turn apathy into action. 💪📚

Your Role

You can make a difference! Start with your home – talk about emergency plans, pack an emergency kit, and stay informed about your local risks and resources. Schools, communities, and individuals alike play a crucial part in weaving a stronger safety net for all of us. 🏫👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

It’s time to listen, learn, and lead in building a more prepared and resilient future. Are you with us? 🌍❤️

#NaturalDisasterPreparedness #CommunityResilience #EmergencyPlanning #ActNow #StaySafe #FutureReady #TogetherWeCan

 

by Champions for Change

SDG 13 Empowering Young Technological Innovators for Climate Action 🌍💡

Join us in nurturing the next generation of environmental champions, equipped with the technology to create a greener, more sustainable world. 🌍✨

In an era where climate change poses one of the greatest challenges to our planet, harnessing technology for environmental sustainability has never been more crucial. It’s essential to equip our future generations with the knowledge and skills to tackle these challenges head-on. This blog post delves into innovative projects that aim to inspire students in Stages 2 and 3 to explore and implement technology solutions for climate action, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action).

Unleashing the Power of Renewable Energy 🌞💨

Our first venture is into the realm of renewable energy. Students embark on a journey to understand and create models of solar panels, wind turbines, and hydroelectric systems. This hands-on experience not only illuminates the potential of renewable sources but also sparks a passion for engineering and environmental conservation.

  • Explore: NASA Climate Kids offers a treasure trove of information on renewable energy tailored for young minds.

Developing Eco-Friendly Apps 📱🌱

In the digital age, what better way to promote sustainability than through an app? Students are challenged to design mobile applications that offer sustainability tips, track carbon footprints, or encourage community engagement in environmental initiatives. This project merges digital literacy with a deep understanding of eco-friendly practices.

  • Get Started: Code.org provides accessible computer science lessons, serving as a foundation for app development.

Cultivating Smart Gardens 🌿🔌

Imagine a garden that uses technology to conserve water and ensure plant health. Through smart gardens, students apply Internet of Things (IoT) technology, using sensors and microcontrollers to create an automated watering system. This project not only teaches valuable tech skills but also the principles of sustainable agriculture.

  • Design: Tinkercad is an intuitive tool for creating digital designs, including circuits for smart gardening projects.

Exploring Environmental Impacts with Virtual Reality (VR) 🕶️🌳

Virtual reality offers a unique window into the impacts of climate change on diverse ecosystems. Students use VR to create immersive experiences that highlight environmental challenges and explore technological solutions, fostering empathy and a global perspective on climate action.

  • Create: CoSpaces Edu enables students to build their own VR worlds, making complex climate issues more accessible and engaging.

Why This Matters 🌟

Empowering students with the skills to leverage technology in the fight against climate change is critical for fostering a sustainable future. These projects not only enhance understanding of environmental issues but also encourage innovation, critical thinking, and a commitment to sustainability.

Join the Movement 🚀

We invite educators and students to dive into these projects, exploring the intersection of technology and environmental sustainability. By nurturing young technological innovators, we can take meaningful steps towards combating climate change and protecting our planet for future generations.

Let’s Connect and Share 📲💬

Share your experiences, projects, and insights on social media. Let’s spread the word and inspire others to take action for climate sustainability!

#ClimateAction #TechForGood #RenewableEnergy #SustainableTech #YoungInnovators #EcoFriendlyApps #SmartGardens #VRforClimate #STEMEducation #FutureGreenLeaders

Find more information and lesson plans on SDG 13 Climate Action here 

 

by Champions for Change

SDG 12 RLA for Teachers to Support Students to Cultivate a Sustainable Future by Embracing Sustainable Agriculture 🌱🚜

In today’s fast-paced world, where concerns about environmental sustainability and food security are at the forefront of global discussions, the role of sustainable agriculture has never been more critical. 🌍🌾 From reducing carbon emissions to preserving biodiversity, sustainable agriculture offers a pathway towards a more resilient and prosperous future. Join us on a journey as empower teaches to support their students to explore the importance of sustainable agriculture and how it’s shaping our world for the better.

Why Sustainable Agriculture Matters 🌿

Sustainable agriculture is not just about growing crops; it’s about cultivating a way of life that respects the earth and ensures the well-being of future generations. By embracing sustainable farming practices, farmers can:

  • Protect the Environment: Sustainable agriculture practices minimize the use of harmful chemicals, promote soil health, and conserve water resources, safeguarding our precious ecosystems for years to come.
  • Combat Climate Change: By sequestering carbon in the soil and reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sustainable agriculture plays a crucial role in mitigating the effects of climate change and building climate resilience.
  • Promote Biodiversity: Sustainable farming methods support diverse ecosystems, providing habitats for wildlife and preserving genetic diversity essential for food security.
  • Enhance Food Security: By prioritizing soil health and sustainable crop management, farmers can ensure a stable food supply for present and future generations, even in the face of environmental challenges.

Embracing Sustainable Practices 🌾🌎

From regenerative farming to agroforestry, there are countless sustainable agriculture practices that farmers can adopt to cultivate a healthier planet. Some examples include:

  • Crop Rotation: Rotating crops helps replenish soil nutrients, reduce pests and diseases, and improve overall soil health.
  • Cover Cropping: Planting cover crops like legumes and grasses helps prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds, and improve soil fertility.
  • Agroforestry: Integrating trees into farming systems not only provides shade and windbreaks but also enhances biodiversity and improves soil structure.
  • Precision Agriculture: Utilizing technology such as GPS mapping and sensor technology allows farmers to optimize inputs like water, fertilizer, and pesticides, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency.

Joining the Movement 🌟

As consumers, we also have a crucial role to play in supporting sustainable agriculture. By choosing locally grown, organic produce, reducing food waste, and advocating for policies that prioritize sustainability, we can all contribute to a healthier and more sustainable food system. Together, we can cultivate a brighter future for our planet and generations to come. 🌱🌟

#SustainableAgriculture #ClimateAction #FoodSecurity #Biodiversity #RegenerativeFarming #Agroforestry #HealthyPlanet #FutureGenerations #SustainableLiving #GlobalCitizenship

Let’s sow the seeds of change and reap the rewards of a more sustainable tomorrow! 🌍🌾

Resources

For Australian students in stages 2 and 3, delving into the realm of sustainable agriculture provides an invaluable opportunity to understand how their choices and actions can impact the environment and global food security. Here are some Australian resources that can support teachers in bringing this topic to life in their classrooms:

  1. Sustainable Schools NSW: Offers a range of resources and project ideas aimed at promoting sustainability within schools. Their programs often include aspects of sustainable agriculture and can be a great starting point for educators.
  2. Landcare Australia: Provides educational resources and support for schools looking to engage in environmental projects, including those focused on sustainable agriculture. Landcare Australia encourages hands-on learning and community involvement.
  3. Junior Landcare Learning Centre: Offers lesson plans, activities, and resources specifically designed for young learners. Topics include sustainable farming practices, biodiversity, and conservation efforts relevant to Australian ecosystems.
  4. Australian Organic Schools Program: Aimed at educating students about organic farming and gardening, biodiversity, and the importance of sustainable food systems. The program offers comprehensive lesson plans and resources for teachers.
  5. CSIRO Education and Outreach: Features science-based educational materials that explore aspects of sustainable agriculture, soil health, and the impact of farming practices on the environment.
  6. ABC Education: Provides a vast array of free educational resources, including videos, interactive content, and articles on topics related to agriculture, sustainability, and environmental stewardship in Australia.
  7. Cool Australia: Offers lesson plans and resources designed to engage students with real-world issues, including sustainability and the environment. Their content often touches on sustainable agriculture and how it can help tackle climate change.
  8. Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation: While primarily focused on kitchen gardens, this program teaches children about growing, harvesting, preparing, and sharing fresh, seasonal food, fostering an appreciation for sustainable food production from a young age.

These resources can help educators create engaging, informative lessons on sustainable agriculture, encouraging students to think critically about their environmental impact and the importance of sustainable practices for the health of our planet and future generations.

 

by Lynne Strong

SDG 13 Empowering Young Voices to Champion Climate Action 🌍🌱

 

Your Actions Matter 🌟

The journey to tackle climate change is challenging but achievable, especially with the energy and passion of young people. Remember, each small action you take contributes to a larger global impact. Let’s join forces to create a sustainable, equitable, and thriving planet for all. 🌍🙌

 

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a call to action for all of us, especially young people who are the vibrant changemakers of today. Among these goals, SDG 13 – Climate Action, stands out as a crucial challenge and opportunity for youth. Let’s dive into how you can contribute to this important goal. 🌟🤝

Understanding SDG 13 🎯

SDG 13 calls for urgent actions to combat climate change and its impacts. It’s a global commitment set by the United Nations in 2015, acknowledging the need for immediate and long-lasting environmental measures. Climate change affects every aspect of our world, from natural ecosystems to urban areas, and addressing it is key to a sustainable future. 🌍💼

The Role of Youth in Climate Action 🚀

You, as young people, are essential in the fight against climate change. With your innovative ideas, digital savviness, and commitment to a better world, you can drive meaningful change. Your actions today shape the world we all live in tomorrow. 🌱💡

How Can Young People Contribute to Climate Action? 🔍

  1. Educate and Spread Awareness: Learn about climate change and share your knowledge. Understanding the issue is the first step towards effective action. 📚🗣️
  2. Advocate for Change: Raise your voice for environmental policies and practices. Join or start campaigns that make a difference. 📢✊
  3. Innovate for Impact: Use technology to find sustainable solutions. Your creativity can lead to impactful environmental innovations. 💻🌿
  4. Volunteer and Collaborate: Get involved in community projects or organizations focused on climate action. Collective efforts have greater impacts. 🤲🌐
  5. Live Sustainably: Implement eco-friendly habits in your daily life. Small changes in how you consume and conserve can make a big difference. 🚯♻️

Building Partnerships for Climate Action 🤝

Teamwork is key. Connect with other young people locally and globally to share ideas and collaborate on projects. Together, you can amplify your impact on climate change. 👥🌍

For more information see our post Climate Change Explained 

#Youth4SDGs #GlobalGoals #SustainableFuture #YoungChangemakers #Act4SDGs #ClimateAction 🌐🌱🚀💚🌟

by Lynne Strong

AGRICULTURE BIG WINNER AT GREEN GLOBE AWARDS

Action4Agriculture ( formerly Picture You in Agriculture ) founder Lynne Strong and Young Farming Champion (YFC) Mentor and Coach Gaye Steel joined finalist YFC Anika Molesworth at the Art Gallery of NSW last Thursday night  for the announcement of the winners of the 2018 Green Globe Awards.

We were very excited to see agriculture high amongst the accolades. Run by the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage the Green Globe Awards recognise and celebrate individuals and companies contributing to a more sustainable NSW, and this year 41% of the nominations were from regional areas.

Winner of the Young Sustainability Champion Award was YFC Anika Molesworth who was recognised for her efforts to raise the profile of climate action and renewable energy within agriculture.

“After seeing her family’s sheep farm struggle through a decade-long drought, she focused her education and began a career building resilience in fragile farming systems,” NSW Minister for the Environment Gabrielle Upton said.

Anika with Robin Mellon

Anika Molesworth winner of Young Sustainability Champion with Robin Mellon who is CEO at the Supply Chain Sustainability School

“This was an exciting category due to the incredible work already being done by the young people nominated,” Anika said.  “Angelina Arora, a high school student, is making plastic from a natural waste product, Arlian Ecker is Plastic Free Boy, and Charlotte Rose Mellis has established projects on remote business, waste management and marine ecology. These young people are already charging ahead in environmental management and sustainability.”

“With any one of these people being a well-deserving winner, I was humbled to be selected as the 2018 Young Sustainability Champion for the Green Globe Awards. I believe this recognition goes beyond that for the individual, but extends to the wider community of young people working tirelessly in agriculture to make it the best it possibly can be. These people come with new tech, new skills and new perspectives that are essential for vibrant and resilient farming systems. These people are making a meaningful contribution to food security, the protection of the land and wildlife, are influencing policy and ensuring a bright future, not only for rural Australia, but for all of us.”

Agriculture was also recognised in the Resource Efficiency Award with pig-producer Blantyre Farms winning the category. Blantyre harvests methane emitted by its pigs and uses it in generators, creating 2,000 MWh of renewable electricity each year. This innovative approach to clean energy has meant Blantyre no longer uses electricity from the grid.

Agriculture also featured as a finalist in the Innovation Award with Woolcool Australia recognised for their use of sheep belly wool to produce insulated packaging materials as an alternative to polystyrene.

WoolCool.JPG

Championing solar energy ClearSky Solar Investments won the prestigious Premier’s Award for Environmental Excellence, the Climate Change Leadership Award and the Community Leadership Award and was a finalist in the Innovation category. This recognition further opens opportunities for the agricultural industry to have conversations regarding renewable energy.

IMG_6590

Anika with fellow finalist Arlian Ecker (Plastic Free Boy) and Neale Siebert from ClearSky Solar Investments.

“Transitioning away from polluting and harmful fossil fuels is critical if we are going to give the next generation of food and fibre producers the best possible chance,” Anika said. “Renewable energy in agriculture gives us an exciting, prosperous and bright future.”

#YouthVoices18 #YouthinAg #ClimateAction #StrongerTogether

 

by Lynne Strong

Young Farming Champions Backing a Future for Agriculture in the fragile Far West of NSW

 

IMG_6640cb.jpg

Young Farming Champion and Climate Wise Agriculture founder Anika Molesworth

The arid zone of western New South Wales is hot and dry and expected to become hotter and drier with a changing climate. Forward planning and community collaboration is key to ensuring the future of farming in the fragile Far West. But what tools are needed?

This question will be addressed at “Outback to the Future” an upcoming free public seminar to be held at the Fowlers Gap Research Station near Broken Hill on Saturday May 12. Organised jointly by the University of New South Wales and Climate Wise Agriculture, the seminar will discuss the future of land management including new technology available now, future technology, how productivity and resilience can be increased, and how the latest research findings can be applied on the ground.

“Land managers of the Far West are no strangers to adversity – it’s a strikingly beautiful place to live out here, but it comes with its challenges,” Anika Molesworth from Climate Wise Agriculture said. “This seminar is about looking to the future, asking the hard questions, and working together to come up with solutions.”

Commencing at 10.00am the line-up of speakers includes: social researcher Emily Berry; animal ecologist Simon Griffith; wool and sheep specialist Gregory Sawyer; soil scientist Susan Orgill; livestock behaviourist Danila Marini; Judge at the NSW Land and Environment Court Simon Molesworth; climate researcher and veterinarian Greg Curran; General Manager of Research, Development and Innovation from MLA Sean Starling; local grazier Angus Whyte; artist Peter Sharp; and members of the local Landcare Youth Network.

“It’s a hugely exciting day – we’re going to be talking drones to move livestock, replenishing soil carbon to access green markets, industry innovations, art movements, and hear the visions from young locals,” Anika said.

Danila

Livestock behaviourist and Young Farming Champion Dr Danila Marini

One particular presentation that is bringing futuristic-tech to the outback is that by Danila Marini. “Virtual fencing is exciting technology, giving farmers the ability to set up a fence line from their computer’” Danila said. “Close to commercialisation for cattle, virtual fencing uses GPS and a smart algorithm to contain animals within a boundary through the use of an audio cue. This technology has great potential for the sheep industry, especially for vast properties where fencing is either impractical or too costly.”

For further details on the seminar visit the website at https://outbacktothefuture.weebly.com/

#youthvoices18

_2017 Supporting partners Capture