World Environmental Health Day: Inspiring young guns of climate action

We all know the popular saying on a paper bag that goes, “We don’t have a Planet B.” Indeed, never has the need to address climate change been so urgent as it is today. From forest fires, floods to droughts, the world is witnessing unprecedented climate issues. Weather conditions have spiralled in too many countries to stay ignorant about the environmental losses we are facing as a species today. Of course, hope floats—inspiring individuals like Greta Thunberg are leading from the front and capturing the attention of the world in a thunderous manner. A young and dynamic climate activist, Thunberg has steadily become a powerful voice in the movement, calling on people to take action for the environment. Her passionate speeches and activism have highlighted the need for immediate change, making it clear that the climate crisis simply cannot be ignored.

Today, several climate activists are making a difference. These individuals are not only raising awareness but also encouraging the common man to take steps to protect the planet. Their dedication reminds us that every effort counts in the fight against climate change.

World Environmental Health Day is observed on 26th September. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the link between environmental factors and public health. It highlights how environmental conditions, such as air and water quality, waste management and chemical exposures, directly impact our wellbeing. This day aims to inspire positive change that safeguards both our environment and our health.

On this special day, join us as we learn more about climate activists who are inspiring us in the fight for environmental protection.

Greta Thunberg

For many of us, Greta Thunberg has become the face of climate change activism. Her incredible work and dedication have made her a symbol of hope and inspiration in the fight against climate change. Greta, a Swedish national began activism when she was just 15 years old by skipping school to protest outside the Swedish Parliament.

Since then, Thunberg has gained international recognition through her powerful speeches and the well-known Fridays for Future school strike movement. She has been demanding stronger action on climate change by world leaders and her determination has captured global attention. Her passion has inspired people around the world to stand up for a more sustainable future.

Archana Soreng

Archana Soreng is an environmental activist from the indigenous Khadia Tribe in Bihabandh Village of Rajgangpur, Odisha, India. As a passionate advocate for environmental and tribal rights, Soreng works to address the environmental challenges faced by her community. She was one of the seven members of the first ever UN Secretary General’s Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change between 2020-23. Her activism highlights the crucial link between indigenous rights and environmental conservation. She strives to protect both the natural world and the cultural heritage of her people.

Ilyess El Kortbi

Ilyess El Kortbi is a climate change activist from Ukraine. At the age of 14, El Kortbi wanted to join various climate movement protests but discovered that there were none in Ukraine. With the help of friends and well-wishers, El Kortbi is now the board secretary of Fridays for Future in Ukraine. Along with other climate activists in Germany, the 27 year old Ukranian is working tirelessly to raise awareness about the ongoing climate crisis.

Leah Namugerwa

Leah Namugerwa is a Ugandan climate activist who began advocating for environmental justice at a young age by. She is well-known for her efforts to combat plastic pollution and to promote sustainable practices in Uganda, Namugerwa is also actively involved in tree planting initiatives. Her activism stresses on the importance of addressing climate issues on a global scale.

Vanessa Nakate

Vanessa Nakate is another prominent Ugandan climate activist making waves. She has founded the Youth for Future Africa movement and is an advocate for urgent climate action, especially in Africa, where the impact of climate change is severe. Nakate’s efforts focus on raising awareness about the environmental crises affecting her continent. Her work emphasises on the need for both local and global action to combat climate change and for that, she urges global leaders to take steps to address these critical issues.

Xiuhtezcatl Martinez

Can you think of a hip-hop artist who is also an environmental activist? Xiuhtezcatl Martinez aka X is one such person. He is a young indigenous activist from the United States who has made a significant impact in the environmental movement. As the youth director of Earth Guardians, an organisation that has the young addressing climate issues, Martinez works to protect natural resources as well as advocates for indigenous rights. Through his music, speeches, writing and activism, Martinez inspires others to join the fight for a healthier planet.

Autumn Peltier

Autumn Peltier is a young Canadian water activist from the Anishinaabe Nation who has been advocating for clean water access for Indigenous communities. She is currently the chief water commissioner of the Anishinabek Nation and started speaking on the importance of protecting water sources and addressing water pollution, especially for the indigenous tribes, at a very young age. 16 year old Peltier’s activism highlights the need for safe and clean drinking water for all communities, especially those that are marginalised.

Inspiring and radical, these young climate activists are contributing significantly to the global movement on climate action. They are also encouraging individuals and governments to take solid steps towards a sustainable future for all. On this World Environmental Health Day, let’s recognise their efforts, gain more knowledge on the link between climate change and environmental health and work towards protecting our environment.