Students from Divine Word University recently participated in the Youth Climate Action Day at Ambarina Primary School, aiming to raise awareness about climate change and sustainable development. The event, supported by World Vision International, was themed “Our Climate, Our Action – Youth Leading Solutions.”
Senior Lecturer Miskus Eadique Lapan emphasized the need for young individuals to grasp environmental issues. He highlighted that connecting classroom knowledge with real-world situations helps students understand the impact of their actions. Lapan remarked, “We must consider how our resource use today will affect future generations. Are our practices sustainable?”
Third-year student Emilton Naulis expressed pride in contributing to environmental awareness. He pointed out that many communities in Papua New Guinea face challenges like water and plastic pollution, coastal erosion, and biodiversity loss. His goal at the event was to share practical strategies for environmental protection. “We aim to provide communities with effective ways to keep their environments healthy,” he said.
Fellow student Wendy Tom also noted the relevance of this initiative to their studies. She observed the immediate effects of climate change within communities, like rising temperatures and coastal erosion. Tom encouraged the adoption of eco-friendly practices, such as using renewable energy and following the “reduce, reuse, recycle” mantra. She suggested solar panels as a cleaner alternative to generators, reducing environmental harm.
The students worked closely with World Vision International staff to promote safe environmental practices. They expressed gratitude for the support in organizing the event, which empowers youth to lead in environmental protection.
Recent surveys reveal that 71% of young people feel concerned about climate change’s impact on their future. As more voices join the conversation, it’s clear that educating communities is vital for fostering sustainable habits. Encouraging small changes, like reducing waste and using renewable resources, can significantly influence community health and resilience.
For more insights on climate change impacts and solutions, explore resources from the United Nations Environment Programme.
