Bengaluru/ Sri Vijaya Puram, June 7: On the occasion of World Environment Day on Friday, leading Indian non-profit CRY – Child Rights and You unveiled a two-day campaign anchored in the global theme: “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”
John Roberts, Regional Director, CRY – South, said, “the initiative seeks to mobilize children, adolescent collectives, communities, and key stakeholders across six states and union territories in South India, fostering climate consciousness, inspiring collective action, and nurturing environmental leadership among the younger generation.”
“Children are the most impacted by climate change-induced hazards – heatwaves, droughts, erratic rainfall, floods, cyclones, and coastal erosion. While they bear no responsibility for deforestation, mining, or carbon emissions, they suffer the consequences most. The South Indian peninsula, with its vast coastline and diverse landscapes, is particularly vulnerable. This campaign is a collective step towards protecting our children and our future”, he explained.
“The campaign is aimed at empowering children to take ownership of their environment and inspiring communities to join hands in building a sustainable future. Join us in empowering children to become climate champions – Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” John Roberts urged.
Miss Farida Bibi (consultant CRY ANDAMAN): On the occasion of World Environment Day, our project organized a series of awareness activities aimed at promoting environmental responsibility, climate action, and sustainable living among children, adolescents, and community members. The campaign focused on tree plantation, creative reuse of waste materials, and awareness generation on environmental conservation and climate change.
A tree plantation drive was conducted with active participation from children, adolescents, community members, and government officials. The activity highlighted the importance of increasing green cover, preserving biodiversity, reducing carbon emissions, and contributing towards a healthier and more sustainable environment. Participants planted saplings and pledged to care for them, reinforcing their commitment to environmental stewardship.
An Art from Waste Materials activity was organized to encourage creativity and responsible waste management among children. Participants transformed discarded and recyclable materials into innovative and useful products, demonstrating the importance of recycling, reducing waste, and conserving natural resources. The activity helped children understand how small actions can contribute to environmental protection.
Awareness sessions were conducted on climate change and environmental conservation, focusing on issues such as rising temperatures, extreme weather events, deforestation, pollution, and their impact on communities and future generations. Children and adolescents were educated about sustainable practices including waste segregation, water conservation, energy saving, reducing plastic use, and protecting natural ecosystems. Interactive discussions, poster displays, and participatory activities helped participants understand the role they can play in mitigating climate change and building a greener future.
The campaign successfully strengthened environmental awareness and climate consciousness among participants while encouraging them to adopt eco-friendly habits in their daily lives. The enthusiastic participation of children, community members, and stakeholders reflected a growing commitment towards protecting the environment and addressing climate change collectively.