Empowering Coastal Bengal: Communities Leading the Charge Against Climate Change Ahead of World Environment Day

While mothers protect their homes from storms, their children are stepping up to create change. Take 17-year-old Soumyadeep Bhuniya from Patharpratima. He may not recall Cyclone Aila back in 2009, but its aftermath looms large in community memories. As a Green Scout, he educates neighbors about tree planting, hygiene, and the dangers of plastic.

Supported by Kaajla, over 300 kids are enrolled in hands-on environmental classes. Here, they learn about climate change, the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), rainwater harvesting, and sustainable living. Vivekananda Sahu, the project coordinator, believes that what kids learn now will influence their parents tomorrow.

The results are visible and fruitful. Once a barren area in front of Raghunathpur Saraswati Free Primary School is now an orchard of 300 fruit trees. Women’s self-help groups care for the trees, ensuring they thrive and provide nutritional benefits to the community.

In Mograhat, kids like Riju Naik and Pallavi Naskar are exploring future possibilities with renewable energy. They gather twice a week at science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) centers to learn about solar energy and sustainable practices. These sessions have sparked excitement. “At first, many kids were hesitant. Now they bring their friends,” shares a teacher.

These initiatives couldn’t come at a more crucial time. 2024 is tracking to be one of the hottest years on record, according to NASA and other climate agencies. The urgency is stark. UNICEF warns that nearly a billion children worldwide face severe risks due to climate change. In places like West Bengal’s delta, rising sea levels and unpredictable weather patterns highlight this urgent challenge.

It’s inspiring to see young people take action in their own communities. Their commitment not only impacts their lives but also sets a positive example for future generations. As they learn and adapt, they’re building a brighter, more sustainable future — one small step at a time.

Source link

coastal areas,Adaptation,climate resilience,West Bengal,child rights and you (cry),mangrove conservation