By Mitch Gaynor
HELPING kids turn climate anxiety into action is the inspiration behind two former Glasshouse students who are going back to school with the aim of ensuring students stay climate positive.
Ariana Doolan and Connor Keogh have recently joined Zero Positive for Schools – a world-first program aiming to help education institutions reach net zero emissions.
The program is currently underway in Australia but has global ambitions.
Through Zero+ For Schools, Ariana, a former YMCA Glasshouse member, realised it was critical to have a youth-led initiative that would help chart the organisation’s future course as well as provide a youthful and fresh perspective to the charity’s decision-making processes.
From that desire, GenZero was established with the aim of helping youth better understand climate change through programs including beach clean-ups, tree planting, conferences and video content to inspire other young people.
“Younger people are, understandably, worried about the future of their planet.
“Without the power or support they need to get things done, many worry about what will happen as the world’s leaders simply add hot air to the debate about carbon emissions.”
According to the Australian Conservation Foundation more than three in four young Australians described being frightened for the future and believe people have failed to care for the planet.
Around one in two believe they will have fewer opportunities than their parents and that climate change would destroy things they most value and threaten family security.
Ariana and the GenZero team are now holding a trivia night to raise funds to help take their program into schools to educate children concerned about climate change better understand how they can be proactive.
The team has raised $1500 through the Bridge to Brisbane fun run and are now raising another $1500 at the trivia night.
“This money will allow us to take part in the Train the Trainer program offered by the organisation Force of Nature,” Ariana explained. Guests will also hear from expert speakers including Duku Fore, a former refugee and now international speaker who empowers young people to believe in their ability to change the world.
GenZero’s Planet Saving Trivia Night is on Saturday, Sep 17 at the Glasshouse Baptist Church from 5.30pm. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/genzero-planet-saving-trivia-tickets-404372467937?aff=ebdssbcitybrowse
Main image: Ariana Doolan and Connor Keogh (centre) are help kids overcome climate concerns.