Youth engagement with environmental issues is on the rise, with various initiatives across Asia aiming to educate and empower the younger generation to take action for sustainability. Recently, students from diverse backgrounds converged at the Marine Education Summit held at the Genkai Town community center to present their findings on marine conservation.
With participants coming from seven schools across Kyushu and Taiwan, around 200 students gathered to discuss their findings related to the ocean, reiterate the importance of environmental protection, and learn about disaster prevention. Schools represented included Genkai Mirai Academy, Karatsu Seisho High School, and several others, alongside online participants from as far as Taiwan.
Students, through activities like biological surveys and beach clean-ups, addressed issues such as marine plastic pollution, showcasing their dedication to improving local marine environments. Especially reflecting on recent natural disasters, the lessons emphasized the necessity of disaster preparedness alongside environmental responsibilities. For example, Minato Elementary, located near the Miike Port on the Ariake Sea, recounted their challenges following severe flooding during heavy rains back in July 2020.
Genkai Mirai Academy fifth-graders shared insights on raising clams and red sea bream, fostering awareness of the region's natural resources. Meanwhile, students from Taiwan illustrated their conservation efforts by introducing spring water to improve the quality of water at their school’s pond, making the case to "protect local ecosystems."
Among the youth presenters, sixth-grader Shino Tsuruta expressed excitement, saying, “I think we shared the beauty of Genkai Town’s nature.” Classmate Sakura Katayama added, “I learned how different the sea can be depending on where you are.”
Another significant part of the conversation around youth environmental action is focusing on Generation Z, who have been vocal advocates for sustainability. Recent studies have shown this generation's increasing consciousness toward environmental conservation, leading to practical changes, such as opting for reusable tumblers over disposable water bottles.
According to Dandy Mahendra, Program Officer at the Jalur Foundation’s Environmental Service Program, "Our research indicates Generation Z has significant concerns for environmental issues. Yet, many seem confused about the next steps they can take. They have begun bringing tumblers, but often need clear direction on how they can be active contributors to environmental efforts."
Emphasizing the need for viable activities, Mahendra urged various stakeholders, including government and private sectors, to organize more environmental initiatives targeted at young people, such as tree-planting programs across Indonesia, to give them tangible methods to channel their concerns.
“That’s why we need to provide containers, and our activities should focus on environmental efforts like reforestation. Young people’s interest can effectively convey the message of environmental protection and push them to follow through with actions,” Mahendra concluded.
Further promoting environmental awareness, the recent lecture by comedian and waste collector Hidetaka Takizawa exemplifies practical engagement strategies. On January 28, he addressed elementary students at Renkouji School, using his comedic talent and personal experiences to share important lessons about waste disposal and the challenges faced by garbage collectors.
Building upon previous engagements for local schools, the Takizawa lecture series, organized by Tamashi City, emphasized the importance of environmental education for students. His inaugural talk incorporated humor but focused on pressing matters such as waste segmentation and the extensive impact of plastics on the environment, captivating young minds with his dynamic storytelling.
Students reacted with astonishment to Takizawa’s anecdotes about waste management, highlighting the need for stewardship and proactive measures to mitigate environmental degradation. Takizawa’s work addresses broader societal issues seen during waste collection, from food waste to contemporary environmental challenges, promoting awareness through creativity and humor.
With collaborative efforts from educators, communities, and the youth, there’s hope for enhanced environmental stewardship and sustainability practices among the next generation. Initiatives like the Marine Education Summit and lectures from passionate figures like Takizawa reinforce the potential for long-lasting environmental action paved forward by inspired young leaders. By empowering youth and providing them with educational tools, society can cultivate committed advocates for responsible stewardship of their surroundings.