Global warming has been an issue for the past 30 years, with the severity of its impact growing at exponential rates. In more recent years, younger generations have begun advocating for drastic cutbacks on our carbon footprint, having watched in dismay as climate change develops into an imminent threat. Additionally, politicians such as Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14) are proposing that U.S. based companies end their use of fossil fuels within ten years.  Nowadays, countless members of the PC community acknowledge the devastating impact of climate change.

“There are places in Miami Beach that are flooded with every high tide. These huge hurricanes that have been forming are gaining strength due to increased sea temperatures.,” states Mrs. Vatland, the AP Environmental Science teacher. “We see catastrophic droughts occurring every 10 years instead of the expected every 500 years”

Last week, a surge of climate strikes spearheaded by teen and young adult activists stretched across the globe. An estimated six million people partook in these strikes to make a statement about how government negligence has compelled them to not only step up as leaders but also to act as a united front against this hot-button issue. At the forefront of the largest climate strike in the country, based in Washington D.C., was 16-year-old Swedish activist Greta Thunberg, who criticizes the U.S. government for expressing a cavalier attitude towards what millions argue is a “national emergency”.

Mrs. Vatland states, “I think that these climate strikes are significant in that they are getting the world to listen. I am not sure that the world or, more specifically, the United States is acting yet. But they cannot deny the voice that young people have on the matter”

The global warming issue has developed into a very divisive one, with some questioning the existence of climate change altogether. Many also contend that the climate strike produces little impact because it does not incite direct action.

Evan Cholerton ‘20, a climate change activist, argued, “The efforts made by those who want change are in themselves significant because the consequences of inaction are even more significant.”

Pine Crest plans to take a greater part in the green movement. A student-led club at the Pine, the Environmental Action Club, has already begun to outline ways to educate the Pine Crest community.  The group hopes to initiate field trips, invite climate change activists to speak, and host events to bring awareness about climate, pollution, and the importance of recycling. 

“I believe one of the most important things that we can do is to educate people.” Mrs Vatland states, “The science is certain: the world is warming up and humans are the cause.”

Sources: NASA, the Guardian