It is indeed encouraging to see how our children have become politically, socially and morally active at such young age. The climate change which pollutes air we breathe in, affects younger generation, as well as elderly people more than general population; especially as so many schools are situated on main roads with heavy traffic constantly flowing during school time that leads to curtailment of outdoor activities.
No wonder many children develop breathing problems, asthma, bronchitis and similar health conditions that may ruin their health and put them on permanent medication for life that is an unnecessary burden on our already under pressure NHS, financially, academically and on staff shortages.
Talking to one of the students who participated in last Friday’s strike, 15th February 2019, she put her case eloquently, pointing out that it is time to act, take urgent steps to protect environment before it is too late, as ice caps are melting, sea level, sea temperature rising, destroying beautiful corals, flooding low level coastlines in countries like Bangladesh, Philippines and Indonesia.
If this trend is not reversed, we will lose some of the most beautiful, low lying islands in the chain of Maldives, Hawaii, Canaries, Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu, Tonga, Andaman and many more. It will also affect polar bears, dolphins, hump wales and many animals that depend on sea for their survival, indeed matured and informative view-point!
There were some valid points made by various people, professionals, as well as parents, media Pundits and School governors. This walk-out was too close to GCSE exams, on a school day rather than at week-end when parents can accompany students and keep an eye. But everyone agreed that these youngsters who are our future, is on the right track, teaching elders and politicians our duty and responsibilities. If they are allowed to negotiate Brexit, we may get us a better deal!
Kumudini Valambia
By email
