The issue of climate change is rapidly emerging on a global scale, yet many Staples High School students are still unaware of the severity. 

Although climate change is one of the most prominent issues currently faced by youth, it is not thoroughly discussed within Staples.  While the subject is definitely present in various political discussions, it is not explained to the scientific extent it required for students’ complete understanding. 

Recently, young activist Greta Thunberg has been the voice of the issue. At only 16 years old, she has already impacted so many people, including many from our own community.Worldwide, she has motivated more student activists to attend marches and put efforts into reducing climate change. 

For instance, I was briefly informed about the Green New Deal and statistics regarding climate change in biology, but I was not given enough information to learn how students can help the cause. 

The biology class curriculum was overshadowed by political, rather than scientific, points of view.  The main focus was the Green New Deal, which was heavily debated at the time between multiple political parties.

There needed to be more discussion about the issue and solutions that are not seen as politically sided. The political views surrounding climate are important, but do not always reveal the effects that matter to students.

Putting politics aside, Staples students should be taught about reducing their carbon footprint and the realities of how climate change effects will impact their future.  There is more to climate change than just politics, because it has begun to affect global civilians. 

Aside from the Staples community, There needs to be a unilateral movement to educate students on the issues and reduce climate change, while also motivating students to be active in their own community.

Within Staples, there could be a curriculum change where climate change is taught effectively and in more detail. Climate change can be reduced if students learn its effects and how they can prevent the issue from spiraling. 

If climate change is taught in a non-political way to motivate more students to make students more aware and conscious of the issue, it would be better for students so they can understand the problem and try to help the situation or join in on the discussion to prevent future impacts.