As I think back on my formative years, I remember the frustration I felt with how we’d possibly apply what we learned in class to “real life,” a sentiment that was (and still is) no doubt mirrored by many students. This discontent leads students to question what they’re being told. When programs such as PlastiVan come to town to preach about individual responsibility as the pollution-eliminating silver bullet, kids think critically. What will they do when the production and use of plastics starts (and hopefully ends) with manufacturers?
More important, the surrounding education kids get on pollution and plastics will contextualize anything PlastiVan or similar programs teach. The impact of these pro-plastic demonstrations is hit-or-miss, depending on whether they assist or contradict other lesson plans.
Students are going to form their opinions on climate change one way or another — whether it’s in school or by listening to the news and social media. It’s something the kids can — and will — pick up on. Climate education is incredibly important early on; these kids have a right to know the role they, and plastic manufacturers, play in the Earth’s future without any political or corporate bias.
Jacquelyn Wells, Washington
The writer is a communications intern with earthday.org.
Read More: Opinion | Students are listening on climate concerns