Several people, particularly the youth, from the city came together on Friday to protest for climate justice as part of the global youth climate movement inspired by a call given by 16-year-old Swedish activist Greta Thunberg.
The aim of the movement was to make citizens and policy makers work towards mitigating climate change by tackling greenhouse emissions.
Karen Raymond, the Indian representative of Fridays For Future — which is the name of the Ms. Thunberg’s movement — said they would protest every Friday until the Centre and State implement proactive policies to curb global warming.
Kiri Meili, a resident of the city who works as a permaculturist (sustainable agriculture), said the responsibility was also on individuals to reduce their own carbon footprint. “As individuals, we should make changes in small ways instead of expecting a lot from the government,” she said.
Disha, a student, said usage of public transport, cutting down on consumption of meat and dairy products, and reducing the use of plastic will have a significant impact.
In their release, Fridays For Future said the youth will ‘not accept a life in fear and devastation’ due to climate change. “The youth of this world has started to move and will not rest again."
