Inspire Youth Action: How to Become a WESSA Youth Environmental Advocate

Reading Time: 17 minutes

In an era where environmental sustainability is not just an option but a necessity, empowering youth action for climate justice becomes imperative.

As an environmental advocate, one might wonder how they will motivate other youth to help protect the environment, navigating through the challenges of climate anxiety and spearheading systemic change. The role of young individuals in advocating for the planet’s health is more crucial than ever, promoting youth leadership and participation in crafting a sustainable future.

This guide aims to illuminate the pathway for emerging environmental advocates, offering insights into meaningful engagement and the impactful role of youth voices in the environmental movement.

This article delves into various avenues through which young people can champion environmental causes—from the active involvement in organizations like WESSA Youth and participation in initiatives such as Young Reporters for the Environment and Eco Schools, to engaging in youth activism for policy change and celebrating Earth Day with vigor.

It further explores the significance of volunteering, community engagement, and the influence of social media on climate activism, providing a comprehensive overview of how youth can contribute to environmental sustainability.

By highlighting youth innovation, youth representation in climate action, and the benefits of intergenerational dialogue and youth-adult partnerships, this guide serves as a blueprint for aspiring environmental advocates to inspire and mobilize their peers towards a greener, more equitable world.

The Role of WESSA Youth in Climate Justice

Overview of WESSA Initiatives

WESSA (Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa) has been pivotal in harnessing the potential of young South Africans through various environmental initiatives.

The WESSA Youth Volunteer programme is specifically designed to foster a new type of commitment among the youth through volunteerism. This program not only focuses on environmental conservation but also aims at building personal growth, accountability, and social cohesion among young participants ^[8].

By participating in the WESSA Youth Volunteer programme, individuals contribute to protecting natural habitats and biodiversity, engaging with communities for sustainable living, and raising awareness about critical environmental issues.

This initiative also includes educational components like the SDG Classroom, co-designed with the United Nations Environment Programme, which equips youth with the knowledge to actively contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals locally ^[8].

Impact on Local Communities

The impact of WESSA initiatives on local communities is profound. By involving youth in environmental action projects, there is not only an enhancement in local biodiversity but also an upliftment in social and economic conditions through environmental education and skills development ^[8].

WESSA promotes the sustainable utilization of natural resources, advocating for public participation and ensuring that community benefits flow from conservation efforts. This approach is fortified by policies that encourage meaningful community participation and benefit-sharing, thus fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility towards environmental conservation ^[11].

Furthermore, WESSA’s efforts in educating youth about biodiversity and sustainable resource harvesting are crucial for empowering them to take active roles in environmental advocacy and policy-making processes. This education includes training in enforcement and compliance, significantly bolstering youth capabilities in tackling wildlife crime and other conservation challenges ^[11].

By integrating these initiatives into local communities, WESSA not only enhances environmental awareness and action but also strengthens the fabric of these communities through improved social cohesion and economic opportunities ^[8]^[11].

Young Reporters for the Environment: Raising Awareness

Educational Programs and Workshops

The Young Reporters for the Environment (YRE) program, coordinated by the Foundation for Environmental Education, plays a crucial role in engaging youth in environmental journalism. Through educational activities and competitions, YRE encourages young participants to research and share solutions to environmental challenges ^[16].

This initiative is not just about journalism for the sake of reporting but aims to foster youth leadership in environmental solutions ^[17]. The program offers a range of workshops and programming that equip participants with essential journalism skills such as interviewing, writing, editing, and collaborating with others, even for those who have never attended journalism school ^[17].

Additionally, YRE provides a platform for young people to engage in projects linked to the Sustainable Development Goals, thereby raising awareness among their peers about sustainability ^[16]. The Foundation for Environmental Education has also launched the FEE Academy, an online learning platform offering courses that further enhance the skills and knowledge of students, teachers, and national operators involved in the YRE program ^[13].

Success Stories and Achievements

The impact of YRE on its participants and the broader community is significant. Many young reporters have shared how the program has given their work a sense of legitimacy and importance, encouraging them to continue their efforts in environmental journalism ^[17].

The program has successfully built an international community of young reporters who inspire each other through their work, sharing cultural values and gaining new perspectives on environmental issues ^[17]. The annual International YRE Competition serves as a platform for young people worldwide to bring attention to local environmental issues.

This competition has led to the discovery of impactful stories that highlight real and current environmental challenges ^[14]. Notably, YRE has been instrumental in giving young people the opportunity to report on major environmental summits, such as COP28 in Dubai, allowing them to investigate sustainability fields firsthand ^[17]. Through participation in YRE, young journalists have gained confidence, recognition, and support for their work, with some even receiving awards that acknowledge their contributions to environmental journalism ^[17].

These success stories underscore the program’s effectiveness in empowering youth to take a stand for their local social and environmental issues through various media forms ^[15].

By fostering a nurturing, action-oriented, and solution-focused environment, YRE enables young individuals and groups to reimagine and craft a sustainable and environmentally just future. The program’s methodological process guides local campaigns and enhances skills in critical thinking, research, and problem-solving, using the Sustainable Development Goals as annual themes for exploration ^[15].

Eco Schools: Building a Sustainable Future

Introduction to Eco Schools

Eco-Schools has emerged as one of the largest global sustainable school programs, initiating action-based learning right from the classroom and extending its impact into the community. This program is celebrated for nurturing generations of environmentally conscious individuals who adopt sustainable habits for life, thanks to the foundational experiences provided by Eco-Schools ^[19].

Operating in 73 countries through FEE member organizations and in 26 countries via International Schools, Eco-Schools has made a significant mark worldwide. Over the past twenty-five years, it has influenced positive environmental actions in approximately 59,000 schools across 68 countries, starting from a few European nations ^[19] ^[20]. Teachers play a pivotal role in this transformative journey, offering stimulating experiences that lay the groundwork for this program’s success ^[19].

Implementing Green Practices

The implementation of green practices within the Eco-Schools framework is multifaceted and involves the entire school community. Schools partaking in the Eco-Schools program follow a Seven Step change process, empowering young individuals to lead and partake in actions that make their schools and communities more sustainable ^[19]. This program encourages students to actively participate in shaping the environmental management policies of their schools, leading them towards earning the prestigious Green Flag certification. This certification not only represents a significant achievement but also instills a sense of pride and accomplishment among the students ^[20].

Engaging the Community and Beyond

Eco-Schools places a strong emphasis on community involvement from the outset. This approach ensures that the sustainable behaviors and lessons learned by students are transferred back into their communities, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility ^[20]. Moreover, Eco-Schools facilitates international connections among participating institutions, offering a platform for environmental information sharing, cultural exchanges, and language skill improvement ^[20].

Educational Impact and Environmental Stewardship

Environmental education within the Eco-Schools framework serves as a catalyst for responsible citizenship and the shaping of a sustainable future. It fosters an understanding of ecological principles, encourages critical thinking about environmental issues, and promotes sustainable behaviors. By integrating environmental education into the curriculum and providing experiential learning opportunities, students gain the knowledge, skills, and values needed to address environmental challenges and effect positive change ^[23].

Hands-on Experiences and Sustainable Infrastructure

Project-based learning and hands-on experiences are central to the Eco-Schools program. Students engage in environmental projects such as waste reduction campaigns, energy conservation initiatives, and community gardening efforts, which allow them to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges. Additionally, the program advocates for the implementation of sustainable practices and the reduction of the environmental footprint within schools. This includes energy-efficient infrastructure, waste reduction programs, water conservation measures, and eco-friendly transportation options, making schools exemplary models of environmental stewardship ^[23] ^[24].

Promoting Green Initiatives and Awareness

Eco-Schools challenge students to tackle environmental problems at a tangible level, instilling in them a sense of responsibility and a sustainable mindset. From recycling campaigns to the introduction of water bottle filling stations and the establishment of school gardens, the program encourages students to think creatively about how they can contribute to a greener planet. These initiatives not only have a direct impact on the local environment but also serve as educational tools, teaching students the importance of sustainability and how their efforts can lead to a healthier school and community ^[24].

Eco-Schools is more than a program; it’s a movement that empowers young people to become agents of change for a sustainable future. Through education, community engagement, and hands-on initiatives, it lays the foundation for a lifetime of environmental stewardship and responsible citizenship ^[19] ^[20] ^[23] ^[24].

Youth Activism: Protests and Policy Change

Grassroots Movements

Grassroots activism has been pivotal in raising environmental awareness on a global scale. This form of activism is characterized by its local origins, where individuals from diverse backgrounds unite to address specific issues through collective action. Such movements have proven effective in putting pressure on authorities and corporations to enact changes. Organizations like the Scenic Hudson Preservation Conference and the Sierra Club have historically united communities to protest against the construction of hydroelectric plants and dams in natural areas, setting influential precedents for future environmental advocacy ^[25].

The role of grassroots movements has expanded due to social media, which enhances the accessibility and popularity of these campaigns. Platforms like Twitter and Facebook allow for the rapid spread of information and organization of campaigns, from online petitions to trending hashtags. This digital aspect has been crucial in educating people and mobilizing them to act, as seen in the widespread coverage of events like the Dakota Access Pipeline protests and the reduction of national monuments in Utah ^[25].

Major Protests and Demonstrations

The impact of youth activism is unmistakable, especially in the realm of climate change and environmental preservation. Young activists have been at the forefront of major global movements, significantly influencing public discourse and policy. For instance, the Fridays for Future campaign, initiated by Greta Thunberg, has mobilized millions of young people worldwide, demanding urgent action to address climate change. This movement, along with others like the Sunrise Movement and Plant for the Planet, has not only raised public awareness but also pressured decision-makers to prioritize environmental issues ^[27].

Historically, student-led protests have also played critical roles in societal transformations. From the Civil Rights movement’s sit-ins at segregated lunch counters to the anti-Vietnam War protests, young people have consistently recognized and acted against injustice. The recent “March For Our Lives” movement, organized by students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, is a prime example of how youth can lead significant political and social change. These movements illustrate the power of peaceful, yet assertive, collective action in effecting change and influencing global policies ^[28].

These examples underscore the vital role of youth in shaping a sustainable future through activism. By leveraging both traditional protest methods and modern digital tools, young activists continue to be key drivers of environmental advocacy and policy reform. Their actions not only highlight the urgency of environmental issues but also demonstrate the potential of informed and united global youth movements in steering the world towards greater sustainability and justice ^[27]^[28].

Earth Day Celebrations: Engaging the Youth

Earth Day Events and Activities

Earth Day, held on April 22, 2022, embraced the theme “Invest In Our Planet” to emphasize that a green future is a prosperous future ^[31]. Schools and educators play a crucial role in this endeavor by inspiring students to participate in various activities that promote environmental awareness and responsibility. For instance, students are encouraged to write down commitments to the environment and create art projects that connect them to global environmental issues, fostering a deeper understanding and connection to the planet ^[31]. Additionally, practical activities like tree planting are significant as they contribute to global goals, such as the Earth Day Network’s ambition to plant 7.8 billion trees ^[31]. Engaging students in trash clean-ups and teaching about pollution directly on school grounds are hands-on methods that not only educate but also instill a sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation ^[31].

Youth-led Initiatives

The Earth Day Network recognizes the pivotal role of youth in environmental advocacy, launching initiatives like #MyFutureMyVoice. This initiative featured 50 youths from 16 countries, each sharing their environmental actions and calling for further governmental and societal engagement ^[35]. These young advocates employ various methods from traditional to innovative, such as utilizing social media platforms to broaden awareness and influence public opinion on climate change ^[35]. Furthermore, on Earth Day 2020, a significant digital campaign, the Re-Earth Initiative, saw extensive participation from global youth, making personal and systemic pledges to combat climate change ^[35]. This exemplifies how Earth Day serves not only as a celebration but also as a platform for youth to lead impactful environmental actions and campaigns ^[35].

Volunteering and Community Engagement

Organizing Clean-up Operations

Community clean-up events serve as powerful tools for instilling a sense of responsibility and environmental stewardship among residents. Schools and local organizations play a pivotal role in these initiatives, offering structured opportunities for students and community members to actively participate in beautifying their neighborhoods. By selecting specific areas that benefit from clean-up, such as beaches, rivers, and parks, these events not only improve the physical environment but also enhance community pride and cohesion ^[37]^[38].

To ensure the success of a clean-up event, meticulous planning is essential. It involves choosing the right project, recruiting volunteers, and securing necessary permits. Effective communication strategies, such as social media promotion and community outreach, are crucial for engaging a broad audience and ensuring adequate volunteer participation. On the day of the event, organizing volunteers into groups with designated tasks helps maintain focus and maximizes productivity. Post-event, it is important to acknowledge the volunteers’ efforts, possibly through celebrations or thank-you notes, to encourage future participation ^[37]^[38].

Promoting Environmental Education

Environmental education is integral to fostering a deeper understanding of sustainability issues among community members. Schools and environmental organizations collaborate to provide educational programs that highlight the interconnectedness of environmental sustainability with social justice and equity. These programs empower students and community members to make informed decisions and take action towards sustainable community development ^[40]^[42].

An example of effective community engagement through environmental education comes from Indonesia, where local governments and NGOs collaborated to promote cleaner coastlines. This initiative included educational seminars and community clean-up events, which were instrumental in not only cleaning the beaches but also in instilling long-term environmental responsibility among the participants ^[42].

Furthermore, environmental education often incorporates hands-on activities that directly benefit the community. Urban gardens, community forestry, and other stewardship activities not only enhance local ecosystems but also provide educational opportunities and improve community well-being. These activities are designed to create a sustainable impact by integrating ecological knowledge with practical application, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility towards local environments ^[42].

The Influence of Social Media on Climate Activism

Youth Influencers and Advocates

Social media has become a pivotal platform for youth influencers who advocate for environmental issues. Influencers like Sabs, who champions conscious fashion and a zero-waste lifestyle, utilize platforms like Instagram to educate and engage followers on sustainable practices ^[44]. Similarly, Isaias Hernandez, known as queerbrownvegan, leverages his social media presence to motivate young people towards sustainable living and highlights BIPOC voices in environmentalism ^[44]. These influencers not only share valuable information but also inspire action by demonstrating how individuals can make a difference in combating climate change.

Social Media Campaigns

Fridays for Future: Initiated by Greta Thunberg, this campaign gained massive traction on social media, significantly raising awareness about the realities of climate change. Thunberg’s active engagement on platforms like Twitter and Instagram helped mobilize youth globally, leading to her impactful speech at the United Nations Climate Action Summit in 2019 ^[43]^[46].
Partnership Campaigns: Various organizations collaborate with activists, artists, and politicians on social media to promote environmental awareness. These partnerships often involve climate challenges where participants engage in eco-friendly practices and share their efforts online, effectively spreading the word about climate change and sustainability efforts ^[43]^[46].
Virtual Influencers: The use of AI-generated virtual influencers like Noonoouri and Sun in environmental advocacy introduces a novel approach to digital activism. These virtual entities promote sustainability and environmental causes, reaching large audiences through their engaging and innovative content on platforms like Instagram ^[45].
Hashtag Movements: Effective use of hashtags such as #ClimateStrike and #FridaysForFuture helps in rallying support and organizing global events. These hashtags allow activists to connect, share resources, and coordinate actions more efficiently, making social media an essential tool for environmental advocacy ^[48].

Social media platforms empower young activists by providing a space where they can not only share their message but also connect with a global audience instantly. This accessibility helps in amplifying their voice and in fostering a community that is actively engaged in addressing climate change ^[48].

How to Get Involved

Joining WESSA and Similar Organizations

Joining the WESSA youth volunteer programme offers individuals the opportunity to support significant environmental initiatives while being part of a robust environmental network at the community level ^[49]. WESSA Youth Volunteers benefit from introductory and volunteer induction courses, which include mentoring and skills development through the Green Matchmaking and Environmental Leadership programmes ^[49]. The WESSA One Million Youth initiative strategically coordinates all youth work and provides a platform for South African youth to actively participate in achieving the sustainable development agendas ^[49]. The programme emphasizes patriotism, social cohesion, and volunteerism, aiming to increase the capacity of youth to support positive action towards the environment and contribute to the welfare of their communities ^[49].

The SDG Classroom, designed by WESSA and the United Nations Environment Programme, educates and equips the youth of South Africa to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals within their local communities. This program incorporates experiential learning through reflection, critical analysis, synthesis, and opportunities for youth to take initiative, make decisions, and be accountable for the results ^[49].

Participating in Local and Global Movements

Individuals can start their journey towards environmental advocacy by engaging in simple volunteer projects, such as planting trees or cleaning up beach pollution. These activities allow individuals to become comfortable with activism and identify specific environmental causes that resonate with them ^[52]. Further involvement can include joining larger movements or initiating awareness campaigns, working alongside community leaders and politicians to use their voices for activism and to understand the government’s role in environmental protection ^[52].

Students from the University of Nevada, Reno, for example, were trained in research techniques and engaged in community projects to gather stories about environmental hazards and natural disasters. These students led critical dialogues in their communities to discuss their findings and brainstorm strategies for change, culminating in the creation of an action plan and seeking legislative sponsorship of a bill based on their research ^[52].

Whether it’s starting a community clean-up group or building a large social organization, taking initiatives for environmental conservation can have a significant impact. Individuals can also get involved with local non-profits and assist environmental community groups through online awareness campaigns, practical help like beach clean-ups, and fundraising events ^[53]. Simple actions like recycling and mindful purchasing habits contribute to conserving resources, reducing carbon footprints, and supporting a circular economy ^[53].

Conclusion

As we navigate through the myriad paths of environmental advocacy, the pivotal role of youth in shaping a sustainable future becomes unmistakably clear. From joining forces with organizations like WESSA, engaging in educational programs with Eco Schools, to spearheading social media campaigns for climate justice, young individuals possess the power to incite substantial environmental change. The journey towards becoming an environmental advocate is enriched with opportunities for innovation, community engagement, and policy influence, underscoring the capacity of youth to lead the charge in preserving our planet for future generations.

The surge of enthusiasm and commitment among young people towards environmental sustainability is promising, laying the groundwork for a more equitable and green future. As we continue to foster this spirit of environmental stewardship, it becomes essential to support avenues that amplify youth voices in the environmental movement. Embracing the call to action and getting more young people into WESSA’s Youth Programmes serves not just as a stepping stone but as a leap towards impactful environmental advocacy. Together, through collective actions and shared visions, we can achieve a sustainable world that cherishes and protects its natural resources for many years to come.

FAQs

How Can You Become an Environmental Advocate?

To embark on a journey as an environmental advocate, consider engaging in activities such as conserving natural resources, which involves the restoration and cultivation of forests, grasslands, wetlands, and watersheds. Additionally, advocating for land-use regulation, environmental reclamation, and ecological restoration are vital pathways in environmental activism.

What Actions Can You Take to Support Environmental Advocacy?

There are several straightforward actions you can take to contribute to environmental protection:

Embrace the principles of reducing, reusing, and recycling to minimize waste.
Participate in community cleanups as a volunteer.
Spread awareness and educate others about environmental issues.
Conserve water by using it more efficiently.
Opt for sustainable products and services.
Make informed choices while shopping to minimize environmental impact.
Use long-lasting light bulbs to reduce energy consumption.
Plant trees to contribute to reforestation efforts.

What Is the Significance of Youth in Environmental Protection?

Youth play a pivotal role in environmental protection through their innovative contributions and technological advancements. They are at the forefront of creating sustainable technologies, advocating for eco-friendly applications, and leveraging social media for environmental advocacy. The youth serve as catalysts for change, merging innovation with environmental conservation efforts.

Why Is Advocating for the Environment Crucial?

Environmental advocacy is crucial because it draws attention to pressing environmental issues, encouraging individuals to use their voices and votes to influence political decisions. Activists play a key role in shaping environmental policies and legislation, thereby contributing to the protection and preservation of the environment for future generations.

References

Author: Trevor Davies

I’m Trevor Davies, a senior consultant, creating my own media training deliverables. Forty years of experience with scores of NGOs and hundreds of trainees mentored to successful careers in visual storytelling are amongst the many reasons we should work together. htttps://trevordavies.org