At the recent Northeast Ohio Youth Climate Summit, more than 500 students gathered to show their commitment to tackling climate change. The event highlighted the importance of joy and community in this fight. Hannah Rosenfeld from Laurel School encouraged her peers, saying there is much joy to be found in envisioning a better future. “Lead with that joy today,” she advised.
Keynote speaker Leah Thomas, a well-known climate activist, shared her journey into activism. She emphasized the need for community involvement. “We need to act local, think global,” she said. Building strong communities will make the climate movement more effective.
Students participated in breakout sessions that covered various topics, including the impact of fast fashion, air and water quality, and the dangers of microplastics. For instance, students Daniel Yuhas, Michael Cacioli, and Aiden Yu from Gilmour Academy explored how improving air quality can also benefit water quality, encouraging their peers to think creatively about pollution solutions.
One session led by the nonprofit See You at the Top focused on how youth perspectives can shape the future of the Great Lakes. Directors Erika and Ebony Hood prompted students to reflect on the environmental challenges they face, such as legacy pollution from industries and the overuse of plastics. Many students acknowledged their reliance on technology and how these habits contribute to climate change.
An interesting takeaway from the summit was a hands-on session that taught students the benefits of hanging laundry instead of using the dryer. It was a fun, practical activity, with one student humorously noting, “My mom is gonna love this!”
Through engaging discussions and activities, students left the summit equipped with actionable steps they could take at home and in their communities. Whether it’s drying laundry outdoors or reducing waste in everyday life, each small change can add up to significant impacts.
Experts agree that local actions can lead to global change. According to a 2022 survey by the Pew Research Center, about 77% of young people feel personally responsible for reducing climate change effects. This generation’s resolve and creativity shine through in their willingness to engage and find joy in the fight against climate change.
As the urgency around climate change grows, students continue to inspire each other and show that hope and action can go hand in hand.
