Dr Moses Amweelo
Young people are some of the world’s most powerful climate leaders and want rapid action to tackle the problem.
It makes a lot of sense.
Higher temperatures and rising sea levels will impact the youngest alive today far more than older generations. But the power to act is often still in the hands of older people, including parents. Big changes are difficult, especially when they involve other people. Where do you begin?
For this year’s Earth Day, we spoke to people who have successfully had tricky climate chats at home.
Here are their top tips: How to talk about going meat-free? Eating less meat is one of the best ways to reduce our impact on the planet, say scientists. With school walkouts, Fridays for future protests, and throes of youth supporting activist Greta Thunberg, it’s clear that the younger generation has taken a strong position for climate justice. However, when speaking about climate change at the dinner table, they are often met with dismissal, disregard, or denial. Reasoning with someone who doesn’t see eye to eye with you is tough – but when that someone is your parents, it seems to be that much more intimidating.
Climate change can be hard to understand, especially for the average person living in an urban centre, far removed from melting glaciers, deforestation, and sea-level rise. When something abstract (such as climate change) does not impact our everyday lives, many don’t feel compelled to change their own habits or believe their own choices and decisions will make a difference. Additionally, the thought that they only have some years still significant, irreversible changes will come to our planet instils fear and discomfort in people. Around the dinner table, this may translate to your parents responding to your passion with disinterest and apathy. However, please don’t be discouraged. People need you (yes, you!) now more than ever to stand up for climate justice.
As the next leaders of our generation, the informed younger generation can, and will, bring significant change to how humanity interacts with and uses our planet. If you are passionate about something, chances are your parents are going to notice. Instead of focusing on the negative aspects of climate change, share aspects of sustainability that you find exciting. Are you passionate about zero waste?
Tell them about it!
Are you a clean-tech nerd and excited about solar panels and wind farms? Show them a cool company that is leading in that industry. Chances are, when they learn about all the exciting technologies and opportunities that exist out there, they’ll get stoked too! Even though many of us are not confronted with the impacts of climate change regularly, if you look hard enough you shall find. In fact, your parents may have noticed changes to their everyday environment, which you can help link to climate change. Ask them about the changes in seasons or weather over time and link these back to climate change.
By providing proof of our changing planet in their everyday life, they can start to connect the dots themselves. Another helpful strategy is to (gently) discuss the potential climate change may have on their hobbies and interests. Does your dad love fishing? Explain to him how sea level rise may impact his favourite watering hole.
Many people struggle to feel empowered to change their habits due to routine, and I find that older generations are especially resistant to change (sorry, dad!). However, offering to help make small changes in the home can translate to big results. Offer to help switch out all your household cleaners to non-toxic, eco-friendly alternatives.
Offer to set up an easy composting and recycling system for your home. Not only will you be setting them up for success, but they will surely appreciate the help around the house! If you are motivated to speak to your parents about climate change, chances are you know a thing or two about the subject. Use your knowledge to engage your parents by providing facts about the most recent projections of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, or how sea level rise will change for example the coastline. Bring up these important topics not in a menacing way, but in an educational one. Send them an article and ask them what they think about it, and offer up a movie night to watch an environmental documentary. Present this knowledge not as a threat, but as an opportunity to become informed and a responsible consumer.
When speaking about climate change, it is normal to feel passionate, and speaking from experience, I know how frustrating it can be to feel not listened to. However, it is important to be patient with your parents and understand that it may take time and repeated efforts on your part to encourage shifts in their behaviours.
In conclusion, taking an active role in climate action is not only important but also necessary. Youth are leading the change in climate action, and there have been impressive and inspiring movements led by the younger generation across the globe. While it may be challenging, youth must continue to speak about climate action to their networks, families, and parents.
*Dr Moses Amweelo is a former minister of works, transport and communication. He earned a doctorate in Technical Science, Industrial Engineering and Management from the International Transport Academy (St Petersburg, Russia).