In a stirring call to action, MP Eve Borg Bonello spearheaded a climate change conference in Malta’s Parliament today.
Titled ‘Ġenerazzjoni Klima,’ the event brought together a diverse array of voices, including activists, scientists, and perhaps most poignantly, children, to candidly discuss and confront the pressing issue of climate change.
The inclusion of children in the discussion was not merely symbolic but a testament to the urgency of the climate crisis.
Martina, a nine-year-old student from St. Monica School Gzira, encapsulated the sentiment of many young attendees when she expressed her desire to grow up in a country that prioritizes her well-being.
Similarly, sixteen-year-old Andre from the Malta Foundation for Wellbeing in Society voiced his frustration with the concrete jungle that Malta has become, echoing the sentiments of many youth who yearn for a greener, more sustainable future.
Key themes that emerged from the discussion included the urgent need for efficient public transport infrastructure, a transition to renewable energy sources, and the imperative of adopting a holistic approach to climate change mitigation and adaptation. Scientists presented sobering heatmaps depicting the areas of Malta most at risk, underscoring the stark reality that not enough is being done to safeguard the nation against this existential threat.
One of the most poignant moments came when children lamented the sight of more tower cranes than trees, highlighting the rampant development that has come at the expense of Malta’s natural environment. The Leader of the Opposition echoed these concerns, drawing attention to the phenomenon of greenwashing and emphasizing the need for genuine, substantive action.
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