The Rainham Eco-Hub's Tread Lightly Podcast

S02E08: Young Voices - Jess

Episode Summary

Welcome to The Rainham Eco-Hub's Tread Lightly Podcast, where we explore what it means to protect our planet, one step at a time. Today, we have a special guest, Jess—a passionate teenager who’s deeply concerned about the climate crisis and the world she’s inheriting. Jess joins us to share her journey, her worries, and the hope she holds onto for a more sustainable future. Tune in as we hear her heartfelt perspective, and find inspiration in her determination to make a difference. Let’s dive into Jess’s story and learn what we can all do to tread a little lighter.

Episode Notes

THE RAINHAM ECO HUB'S TREAD LIGHTLY PODCAST SEASON 2 

Episode 8 - Young Voices: Jess 

Special Guest: Jess from Rainham Eco Hub 

• Guest Introduction: Meet Jess, a student and volunteer at the Eco Hub who shares insights on how eco initiatives influence young people.

Key Discussion Points: 

Young People & Environmental Education 

• Statistics reveal that a significant percentage of UK teens desire more climate change education across subjects.
• The lack of comprehensive climate education leads to rising eco-anxiety among youth.

Challenges in Schools 

• Teachers feel ill-equipped to handle detailed environmental conversations.
• Suggestions for schools include integrating practical activities like recycling art projects with non-toxic materials.

Youth Engagement & Politics 

• Young people's voices often go unheard despite their future being impacted by current policies.
• Importance of political engagement before voting age is highlighted as crucial for shaping future leaders' perspectives.

Empowerment Through Action 

• Encouraging personal responsibility over forced actions can lead to genuine care for the environment.
• Real-world experiences (e.g., trips) could enhance understanding and motivation among students.

Community Influences & Initiatives 

• Youth spaces are identified as critical areas needing development based on local surveys highlighting young people's needs.
• Activism examples such as anti-idling campaigns show youth involvement potential when given platforms and support.

Overcoming Peer Pressure & Indifference – Addressing peer pressure barriers through school programs focused on individual passions rather than conformity might foster proactive attitudes toward environmental issues.

Visionary Changes with Unlimited Resources – Ideas include embedding sustainability deeply within educational curricula while illustrating real-life consequences and benefits clearly visible or experienced by students directly.

Conclusion: 

Jess emphasises creating opportunities for open dialogue between youths about what they care about most regarding our planet’s health—encouraging adults not only listen but also act upon these concerns collaboratively alongside them!