Let's talk to young people about sustainability EP.1

Sustainable development requires a long-term cooperation from all parties, including private and public sectors. When planning for sustainable future, we must include kids and young people. The sooner our future generations understand the importance of sustainability practice, the better. This means introducing them to the negative impact of climate change and encouraging them to take actions.

These are 3 easy ideas to start educating kids and young people about sustainability.

Start a conversation

We have an obligation to leave the planet a better place for future generations. Raising awareness through having simple conversations can be a good start.

The conversation can start as easy and simple as "do you know what sustainable development mean?" or "do you think this winter is hotter than last year? Do you know why?" These questions will plant a seed of curiosity for kids, allowing parents to continue the conversation.

There is no need to have all the answers. Parents can research and find out ways to contribute to a more sustainable future together with kids. Remember to use simple language with no jargons or technical terms when talking about the topic. Invite them to discuss about the topic rather than to feel bored about it.

Make it relevant

Consider building a conversation around things that kids and young people are interested in. For example, if your girl loves fashion, talk to her about fast fashion, massive waste generated from the textile industry, or ask her to look at her clothing tag to see 'who made her clothes.' If your boy loves cooking, talk to him about household food waste or ask if he would like to plant some chili or basil in the backyard.

Introduce them to a new perspective of the things they care about. Invite them to be more curious and appraoch things in a different aspect. The topic of the conversation doesn’t have to be complex or heavy. On the contray, it should be simple, casual, interesting, and relevant to their lifestyle. This is to catch young people's attention and encourage them to stop and think.

Be their role model

If you want to draw kids and young people's interest towards sustainability, show them that you care about this topic. Let them know that sustainability is important to you. Parents can start as easy as reminding kids to bring reusable shopping bags to a supermarket, using active transport when possible, and having different rubbish bins to separate food waste and recycled waste. Keep emphasising kids and young people the importance of sustainability practices through your commitment and daily routine. We all know that adults are big influence to young people.

Again, you don’t have to know everything about sustainability, in fact no one can possibly know everything! Generate the conversation and create a home environment that promotes sustainability practice are already a good start! There are many evidence of the negative impact of climate change. Parents and young children can learn and explore about sustainability together, that might even be more fun!

Can you think of more ideas to educate kids and young people about sustainability?