Imagine the legacy we will leave our children if nothing is done to stop plastic pollution. Imagine that by 2050, there could be more plastics than fish, the soil would be more polluted than ever. What about water and food? Will these essential resources still be available? In less than 70 years, we managed to create a plastic empire. However, we have to do beterre now. We always say that we, as consumers, have the power to change things. But, we’re not the only ones being able to reverse this trend. Indeed, we need to involve our kids, and here’s how.
Teach your kids about the plastic issue …
Plastic is a global issue. However, at school, teachers don’t always explain how urgent it is to fight plastic pollution. So, as parents, we need to introduce step by step this topic and simple solutions. Indeed, you can read to them books or watch documentaries about the beauty of Nature. While doing this, you can explain to them that our Planet and even their favorite animals are in danger because of (plastic) pollution.
Also, you can inform your kids about the importance of the oceans and the role they play. Indeed, oceans produce more than half of the oxygen we breathe but they also regulate the climate.
… and they’ll become your teachers
In a study, published in Frontiers in Political Science, researchers found out that on average voters and local leaders show greater concern about plastic in the ocean after watching presentations from children. So basically it’s a win-win situation since both (parents and children) will learn and grow together.
“Kids can play a real and needed part in the political process, especially if we’re making decisions about their futures,” says Kathryn Stevenson, assistant professor of parks, recreation, and tourism management.
Kids, or the new hope
Our children are the new generation, full of dreams but they are aware that our Earth is suffering. A lot of young people are already involved in this fight, just like the little girl Greta Thunberg, who is an inspiration to all of us. You all know Greta, but you may not know Amy and Ella Meek, aged 17 and 15, who are the founders of Kids Against Plastic!
See how inspiring these kids are. They represent the new hope, they are the generation that can do beterre. This is the reason why it’s important to teach your kids small steps that will accompany them in their daily life. For instance, if they are aware that straws are dangerous for our planet and the marine ecosystem, they’ll probably refuse to drink their juice with a straw next time.
