The responsibility to safeguard nature lies with the youth today. Nature conservation is very important, in order to preserve animal species for future generations. The energy and creative ideas of youth can lead to positive changes in nature conservation. In fact, many young people have been involved in activities to help wildlife conservation, by volunteering their services to wildlife conservation organizations, as well as in government and UN initiatives. Read on to find out the many ways in which the youth are contributing to nature:
Students participate in events marking World Environment Day
The World Environment Day is observed on March 3rd every year since 2013. This year, the theme is “Listen to the Young Voices”. The population of youth (between the ages 10-24) in the world is approximately one quarter, and many of these young people are going to be in influential positions, as future decision makers and leaders. Thus, the need for nature conservation has to be impressed upon youth globally, so that whatever decisions they make in future, they will keep nature as a priority, and work towards safeguarding animal and plant species all over the world. The UNEP organises many events keeping this in mind, and young people participate in these events to help in conserving wildlife.
There is a huge amount of poaching and smuggling of wildlife is going on in the world. To help save many species, action needs to be taken. People need to be educated about ways in which wildlife can be secured. Young people have made efforts to educate people in their area about the need to save wildlife, by meeting and explaining to them the dangers to our environment if animals and plants vanish from the environment. Many people need to be made aware of their false beliefs and superstitions regarding talismans made from animal parts, which is one of the main reasons why animals are killed. Elephants, rhinoceros and other animals will disappear from our planet, and future generations will be able to see only images of these animals.
The combined wisdom of nature conservationists and the energy and enthusiasm of youth can help to save endangered species.
Young people participate in UAE’s Green Hope conference
UAE’s Green Hope organized a conference commemorating Environment Day. The conference’s agenda was to put on priority biodiversity conservation in sustainable development. The conference was held over two days and the first day of the event saw young people plant mangrove saplings, take part in releasing turtles and were taught about the significance of renewable energy at Dubai’s Sustainable City.
On the second day, more than 150 young and passionate environmentalists belonging to different universities and schools from UAE and student delegations from Muscat’s Indian School and British School, Bahrain congregated at Dubai’s Apple International School.
UNEP, the United Nations Environment Programme’s Regional Representative and Director, Dr Iyad Abumoghil inspired the students with his talk. He encouraged them to play an active role in working to conserve the environment.
Other eminent conservationists also addressed the students and shared their insights with them, making them aware of the current scenario in the conservation movement. They were motivated to help NGOs who are working to save endangered species, for example, the white rhino.
The students also took part in public speaking and art competitions, and performed plays on the theme of nature conservation.
Young people teaching others about wildlife
Many young people volunteer at wildlife research and conservation centres, learning about the habits and habitat of different animals. Then they share this information with science clubs in their schools and also at community education events. They inspire others also to volunteer and spread information about endangered species, and what could be done to save them.
Robert Irwin keeping his father’s legacy alive
Steve Irwin inspired millions of people and awakened interest in wildlife. His son, Robert Irwin, 13, is following in his father’s footsteps and raising awareness about wildlife issues. His passion for nature conservation at such a young age is impressive and inspiring for other young people.
The state of the planet and wildlife is such today that young people have to actively work for the well being of environment. Many young people have made a positive and commendable contribution in wildlife contribution, but many more need to join in.
