This weekend, students from the Pittsburgh area will gather to tackle climate change at the Pittsburgh Youth for Climate Action Summit. Organized by Communitopia, a nonprofit focused on climate education, this one-day event will bring teens together to explore climate solutions through workshops and speakers from environmental groups.
During the summit, I spoke with 17-year-old Mathilda Turich, a senior at Pittsburgh Public Schools. She’s one of the organizers and passionate about climate activism.
Getting Involved in Climate Action
Mathilda’s connection to nature started early. She often visited her grandmother’s farm, where she noticed how industrial development was impacting the environment. “Seeing suburban homes crowding the farmland and the creek getting muddy from runoff made me interested in conservation,” she explained. After attending a previous summit, she became involved in organizing these events to inspire others.
Learning Through Engagement
Mathilda emphasized the importance of keeping things engaging. Climate change is serious, but making it fun helps maintain motivation. “If things feel too heavy all the time, it can be discouraging. We try to include activities like climate trivia to keep spirits high while learning,” she said.
Taking Action
Currently, Mathilda is creating a native plant garden with her mom at her grandmother’s farm. She encourages classmates to find climate initiatives they’re passionate about and to invite others to join. “Don’t let the fear of not being perfect stop you. Start now. You’re likely not alone in wanting to make a difference,” she advised.
Challenges and Frustrations
Mathilda expressed frustration at how climate change is sometimes dismissed. People often struggle to connect extreme weather with the climate crisis. “It’s not just about the heat; it can mean more severe winter storms too,” she noted. She pointed out that businesses sometimes engage in “greenwashing,” claiming to be environmentally friendly while still contributing to the problem.
Staying Hopeful
Despite the challenges, Mathilda finds hope in the community of activists who care deeply about the planet. “Seeing others working hard motivates me. It reassures me that I’m not alone in this fight,” she said. She acknowledges the anxiety many feel about the future but emphasizes the power of community support.
Looking Ahead
As she prepares for college at Columbia University, Mathilda plans to continue her activism. She’s eager to engage with existing environmental groups and advocate for better landscaping practices on campus. “I noticed they have a lot of lawns that need to be replaced every year. There’s room for improvement,” she shared.
In summary, young activists like Mathilda Turich are crucial in the fight against climate change. Their dedication and innovative approaches ensure that hope and community spirit remain at the forefront. For more insights on youth activism, you can visit the Pittsburgh Youth for Climate Action Summit.
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