It can be easy to get discouraged about the state of our environment when all you hear about are excuses from politicians and damaging policies.

Just days after the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released their most recent report on the status of the climate crisis, for instance, the Canadian government approved an offshore oil project that could exacerbate climate change. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization announced that you’re probably breathing polluted air no matter where you are in the world.

These broken promises and discouraging reports reveal the extent to which we have harmed wildlife, as well. One of the most biodiverse areas of the world—the Amazon rainforest—has lost 17% of its land in the past 50 years, primarily due to an increase in animal agriculture, according to World Wildlife Fund. Globally, 68% of wildlife species that are being monitored for population are in decline.

We don’t have to tell you how essential it is for everyone, everywhere, to raise their voices for SDG 15: Life on Land. (In case we do, check out our recent interviews with experts from Wildlands Network and Re:Wild.)

But here’s the thing: When we dwell on this urgent but disheartening news, it can be difficult to rouse ourselves up for action. That’s why The World We Want is always grateful to the group of people bringing a new wave of hope, perspective, and dedication to fighting climate change: Young activists.

From composing poems about their love for ecological diversity to raising money for conservation organisations, young activists around the world are showing everyone that the climate crisis doesn’t have to mean focusing on the doom and gloom. We can revel in art, dance for orangutans, and bring creativity to the movement, all the while recognising the urgent importance of taking action now.

And while you’ve probably heard of Greta Thunberg—and perhaps some of the lesser-known teenagers striking for the climate—there are thousands of young activists building a future where wildlife can enjoy the world along with the human race.

To spread the news about just a few, The World We Want has compiled a list of 5 young people promoting ecological diversity around the world.

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Aneeshwar Kunchala, United Kingdom, 7

Young Aneeshwar took the world by storm when he joined the stage of Britain’s Got Talent to read a poem he crafted about the environment. Titled ‘Hope,’ Aneeshwar’s poem celebrates the beauty of the planet and all species that call it home.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Jvy1dBWPdhk

There’s no other planet like earth.
It holds plants and flourishes life.
It is an amazing creation, a real inspiration.
There’s no other planet like Earth.

Inspired by the wildlife in his own backyard, Aneeshwar began making videos with his father to encourage conservation efforts during the nation’s lockdown in 2020. Now, the young activist is showing the world that you’re never too young to start taking climate action.

Sofia Molina, Mexico, 13

At just 13 years old, Sofia Molina has spent much of her young life traveling Mexico to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation efforts.

After a school project encouraged Sofia to explore how the jaguar came to be endangered, she started her own non-profit called Cococu. The organisation utilises the passion of young people to advance conservation efforts through conferences and workshops.

Now, Sofia has met with important members of the Mexican government, as well as the Resident Coordinator of the UN in Mexico Antonio Molpeceres.

“I want to reach a global level, for everyone to be aware of the damage to the planet and for them to think about the planet future generations will have, whether a very polluted one or not,” Sofia said, according to El Universal.

Kate Williams, United States, 12

Kate became interested in wildlife conservation after a family trip to South Africa, where she learned about the threat human activity poses to animals. She decided to take action and quickly brainstormed the best way to teach other kids about the importance of conservation: Books!

Her book Let’s Go On Safari details her adventures on safari, such as dehorning rhinos and tracking pangolins. Proceeds from her book go to a few different conservation organisations, including Re:Wild.

Five years later, Kate is still dedicating her time and energy to preserving the species that share the planet with humans. Between promoting her book and running a podcast called Club 15, Kate is building The World We Want for future generations each day.

Carmela Ellaga, Philippines, 22

Growing up along the coast of the Philippines, Carmela enjoyed a special childhood interacting with the ocean and the wildlife species that call it home. But as climate change has led to rising sea levels and dangerous typhoons, the young activist witnessed just how important taking action to protect the environment is for her community.

Carmela began dedicating her life to educating others about the importance of waste management to avoid contributing plastic to the ocean, as well as to participating in coastal cleanups. She recognises that her contribution to the climate change movement may be small, but believes it will have a ripple effect and inspire others to change.

Ahmed Elhadj Taieb, Tunisia, 22

At just 22 years old, Ahmed represented his country of Tunisia at COP26 last November. His mission is to rally support from all corners of the world to take action on climate issues so that his generation can spur the change we need to protect our planet.

In addition to devoting his studies to environmental science, Ahmed acts as the General Secretary of Youth for Climate Tunisia, where he raises awareness about environmental issues and encourages young people to pursue sustainable habits.

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As Earth Month comes to an end, we can all use a little inspiration to keep up the habits we built this April to fight climate change. If you need some help, just look to these young people; they’re already changing the world.