Arabic version: خبير المناخ في الأمم المتحدة يتفاعل مع الطلاب المتميزين حول قضايا تغير المناخ

According to ABC News,

Students from Bright welcomed UN climate expert Elisa Morgera during her visit to Bright P-12 College in north-east Victoria. Morgera, a special rapporteur on climate change, addressed students’ pressing questions about climate change, highlighting the importance of empowering young minds to think critically about the future.

Research has found 89 per cent of Australian children aged 12 and 13 say climate change is something we should worry about. During the visit, students posed questions such as when climate change began, which countries are handling climate change the best, and the future of skiing in light of climate impacts.

Professor Morgera emphasized the necessity of fostering hope among youth regarding climate solutions. She noted that while the transition away from fossil fuels is essential, it must not infringe on human rights. Morgera stressed that renewable energy development should ensure equal access and align with agricultural and water protection needs.

The visit was organized in conjunction with the Climate Kids video series by the University of Melbourne, aimed at answering children’s climate-related inquiries. Parent Lily O’Neill, who co-produced the series, highlighted the genuine curiosity of children in addressing complex issues without hesitation.

Students shared their perspectives on climate change, with Year 4 student Hazel Pike expressing optimism about society’s ability to enact change. In contrast, Year 6 student Elsie Fenton reflected on the mistakes of previous generations that have led to current environmental challenges. Eleven-year-old Murphy Tripp voiced concerns about the future of skiing due to climate change, illustrating the tangible impacts these issues have on young people’s lives.