We Can Do It: How Students Can Prevent Climate Change

By Daniel Shapiro’23

    The world is currently facing a massive environmental crisis. Carbon is being emitted into the atmosphere at an alarming rate. This is expected to warm the planet significantly over the two degrees Celsius agreed upon by the Paris Climate Accords. It’s a colossal problem but as a society, the tools to stop it are within reach.

    The climate crisis is a global issue with many facets. However, action can be taken on a micro societal level. This includes making Golda Och’s school environment more climate-friendly.
    “Engaging with the science department, teachers see what can be tied to class lessons or lessons outside of the classroom,” Interim Principal Mr. Herskowitz said.
    Educating the next generation about the risks posed by climate change is one of the best ways to fight the issue. However, the way the learning environment is structured can also make a huge difference. Changes like these are crucial, and the student body itself can do much to ensure that GOA is as kind to the environment as possible.
    When asked about some of the changes that have already been made to the schooling environment, Mr. Herskowitz noted that “this year we have become almost fully paperless.”
Student action is one of the most crucial parts of getting change within the educational system. There are many options for concerned students including getting involved in clubs and reaching out to the Student Council.    
    “There are some students, both middle and high school, who are very involved and they, during our meetings, had recommendations for other clubs and organizations that we could bring in to work with,” Dr. Klein said, “whether that be a letter-writing campaign or getting involved in a cleanup.”
    A sizable part of the student body is concerned about the climate and how Golda Och can make an impact.
    “Incremental changes in lifestyle can make the Earth a better place,” sophomore Sam Zaslow-Braverman said.
 People working together, whether as a large society or a small school group, will help get humanity through this crisis. 
    ​“We need to fundamentally change our way of life to really have an impact, and that, to me, is really the education piece of this,” Dr. Klein said. “Yeah, we could do some small things now, but if I could get someone interested and they decide on a major or a career, that’s how the world is going to change.”
    One of the options for engagement is GOA’s Environmental Protection Club which offers a good opportunity for students to become more active. 
    “If we have one or two students that really are excited and want to mobilize then let’s do a trip, let’s go to a rally, let’s go bring someone in,” Dr. Klein said.
    The globe is at a turning point in terms of climate. This is the moment in human history where people must step up and participate in changes to make the planet a better place. An example of this change is opting for less throwaway plastic being used by students.
    “We have an opportunity here in school to eliminate plastic cups, forks and knives and single-serving packets. ” Dr. Klein said.
    ​If ideas such as those Dr. Klein has suggested can be put into action, then the future can be a brighter and cleaner one.

​