Global Youth Demand Climate Action Now
Six years have passed since Greta Thunberg’s lone protest in Sweden, sparking a worldwide movement. Today, youth around the globe are marching to demand quicker action on climate change. Despite their efforts, carbon emissions and temperatures continue to rise, and oil and gas drilling persists.
These protests in New York City are part of a larger series of climate events, coinciding with upcoming United Nations summits on sea level rise and the future. The focus is increasingly on the financial aspects of fighting climate change, a key issue for protesters.
Young activists with Fridays for Future express frustration over inaction but remain hopeful. They are calling for governments and the financial sector to make polluters accountable for environmental damage. Protests were held in cities like Berlin, Rio de Janeiro, and New Delhi, with a significant focus on New York.
Uganda’s Hilda Flavia Nakabuye joined hundreds in New York, hoping to represent Uganda’s struggles. She emphasized the need for more significant action and the importance of holding polluters accountable.
Protesters Target Fossil Fuel Giants
In New York, the protest aims to confront the pillars of fossil fuels—polluting companies, funding banks, and ineffective leaders. Organizer Helen Mancini highlights the need to focus on these key areas for meaningful change.
A recurring theme among the protesters is the economic concern linked to environmental issues. Julia Demairo, a college sophomore, stresses that worrying about the future of the environment is essentially worrying about the economy.
On a notably warm day, protesters carried signs with messages like “Youth Didn’t Vote for Fossil Fuels” and “Climate Crisis = Extermination By Capitalism.” The creative and impactful slogans reflect the urgency and seriousness of their message.
Key themes from the protests include:
- Holding polluters accountable
- Demanding financial sector reform
- Highlighting the economic impact of climate inaction
Shifts in Emissions and Energy Sources
Despite the protests, global carbon dioxide emissions from burning fossil fuels have increased by about 2.15% since 2017. However, the growth rate has slowed, and experts predict a peak soon, which is still far from the 43% reduction needed, according to a UN report.
Emissions from coal, oil, and natural gas have varied, with significant increases driven by China, India, and developing nations. However, emissions from developed economies have decreased, reaching the lowest levels in over 50 years.
In the past five years, clean energy sources like solar and wind have grown twice as fast as fossil fuels. Despite this progress, developing countries need financial support to reduce their fossil fuel dependence.
The Earth has warmed significantly since 2018, with recent years breaking temperature records. This ongoing warming trend underscores the urgent need for accelerated climate action.
Global Protests and Calls for Accountability
In Berlin, hundreds took to the streets with signs like “Save the Climate” and “Coal is Over!” Activists organized performances to draw attention, while in London, protesters demanded financial contributions for climate adaptation and transitioning away from fossil fuels.
Despite smaller crowds compared to previous years, the passion and determination of the protesters remain strong. They are determined to push for quicker, more effective climate action on a global scale.
Seventeen-year-old Ashen Harper from Connecticut, a veteran protester, emphasized the importance of accelerating progress. He believes that while progress is being made, it is not fast enough to combat the climate crisis.
These global protests highlight the need for continued activism and pressure on governments and corporations to act swiftly and decisively on climate change. The youth-led movement remains a powerful force for change.
Sophie
Thnak you for covering this! More people need to know what’s happening.
Ginger
Unbelievable how we still rely on fossil fuels. When will we learn? 😡
cooper_twilight
I hope this actually leads to change. Politicians need to listen!
CoraUnity0
Wow, finally some real action! Keep up the good work, protesters!
Tigger
Great article, but why isn’t the government doing more to hold polluters accountable?
Charlotte
This is so inspiring! How can we support these young activists?