Students from Hudson High School recently spoke about their work with UNESCO’s youth climate program at the Climate Café for Green Hudson. They met kids from all around the world and exchanged ideas at an international conference in Portugal after being chosen to represent Hudson High.
Their project’s main goals are to improve recycling, and decrease litter. They hope to teach students about correct recycling methods and encourage healthier lifestyles. In order to promote community involvement, they additionally work together with nearby recycling programs and decorate cleanup bags with environmental messages.
They have to deal with issues like the requirement for money to buy supplies.
They are dedicated to leading climate change efforts and motivating others to take action in spite of these challenges.
Senior Adrian Jacobson, shared his motivation, “I want my kids and grandkids to grow up in a world better than what I did.”
He also spoke about the difficulty of the conference, “It was tough, but an honor to be one of eight students from the U.S. representing what we need to do for a better future.”
Senior Clara Pereira also noted the importance of working together to make an impact. “We’ve learned that small actions add up; even if we can’t change the world overnight, we can still make a difference in our community.”
At the UNESCO conference, they got a chance to talk to other students from around the world and discussed climate solutions. While they didn’t directly work on presentations, they shared experiences and ideas about taking on environmental challenges.
“It was inspiring to hear about what students in other countries are doing,” said Adrian. “We realized we all face similar problems, but there are so many creative ways to address them.”
Outside the event, they explored Portugal and experienced a new culture, which broadened their perspectives on global issues.
Clara reflected on the friendships she made “The kids we met were so special. We bonded in just three days and ended up in tears at the end. I’m incredibly grateful for the connections we made through this trip.”
She also talked about how important it was to her, bringing what they learned back home. “This experience made me realize how much power we have as young people. We have to take action now.”
Going forward they want to work with school staff to improve recycling, raise student participation.
