2023 was recorded as being the hottest year globally since global records began in 1850. The ten warmest years have all been recorded within the span of the last decade (2014-2023). 2024 is expected to surpass this record by 1.5 degrees celsius over the next 12 months and is already breaking its own records with January 2024 being recorded as the warmest January on record with an average of 13.14°C. As teenagers of today we are often portrayed as the leaders of tomorrow, we understand that climate change poses a direct threat to our future and have to inherit the consequences from past generations. Our opinions are crucial in impacting our lives and the lives of our future generations and our voices are the key to making a difference in our environment. Here at Gresham High school, Gresham’s Key club is our main source of inspiration when it comes to making a big difference within our community. “Key Club is a community service based organization that provides volunteering opportunities for students! We focus on teaching skills such as teamwork and leadership.” Says Dana Nguyen. “From my time here at GHS, I haven’t noticed enforcement regarding environmental concerns. In my opinion more could be done for example, reusable plates for lunch or simply adding more trash cans on campus that separate recyclables and nonrecyclables. As the inheritors of the planet, we will bear the brunt of the consequences of climate change. By actively engaging with the issue of global warming teens develop a sense of compassion and cultivate the skills necessary to become effective leaders in the fight against climate change. Our youth are our future. We should have a say in the world that we’re living in.”
By being involved in community service projects focused on environmental issues students contribute to solutions while also raising awareness among their peers. Not only does global warming have a significant impact on the lives of humans but it also greatly impacts the wildlife and animals that live here on earth. As temperatures rise, habitats crucial for many species are altered or destroyed. “Being part of a volunteer based club has brought my attention to the demands of our environment.”. Rising global temperatures lead to more frequent and severe natural disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires, flooding and even climate-related health hazards like heat waves and air pollution. “Broadening our knowledge with environmental concerns allows us to make changes in our daily lives, no matter how small.”
As temperatures rise, it is up to our generation and those after us to make a difference. It is important to spread awareness and bring to light the consequences of climate change and instead try to bring good modifications to our planet.