The Copenhagen Summit on global warming has had an effect on students and has certainly made them more aware of the dangers of global warming. It was heartening to see students with such a high level of concern for the environment when asked about their New Year resolutions.
Some steps
Expressing the need to take urgent steps to tackle global warming, Shrutha, of Std VIII says, “It's time we realised the gravity of the situation and took steps to counter changes in the environment. With eight of my friends I have decided to walk to school, which is just two kilometres away from home in a bid to lower global warming.”
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Pollution is the biggest factor in global warming, says Manish, Std X. “When too many greenhouse gases enter the atmosphere, more heat gets trapped and the Earth's temperature increases.”
Take responsibility
“We cannot escape by saying it is climate change, instead we need to accept that pollution is one of the biggest contributors towards global warming. “Riding a cycle to school is just a step towards this and I have also decided to watch less television, thereby reducing the greenhouse effect,” he adds.
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Many are unaware that little things like turning off the lights can help fight global warming. Another thing that increases global warming is the felling of trees. “Trees and plants collect carbon dioxide and less greenery means an increase in the greenhouse gases sent into air,” says Nikita of Std IX. “I have decided to use the air conditioner less and also plant saplings to reduce the greenhouse effect as a part of my New Year resolution,” she adds.
Re- use
Stress on recycling and use of renewable energy was high on the agenda of children as they go a long way to reduce the greenhouse effect. Children feel that unless the problem is tackled soon, it could transform the earth into a place where living would become difficult.