Engaging Generation Y in environmental activism
This is part of a series of short news updates beyond Greenpeace-specific news. World environmental events in a blurb:
In the same way previous generations engaged in anti-war activism, Environmental organizations and political leaders alike, are trying to find ways to engage people, particularly young people, in environmental activism.
Well aware that young people, a.k.a Generation Y, are connected to some piece of digital technology at all times, leaders and organizations are experimenting with new and trendy ways to get their message out and people in. Twitter, Facebook, Myspace, Web chats, Blogs, etc – they’re all up on their technology.
The Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd for example, likes to tweet. He’s also on the various social networking sites and recently held a live webchat about climate change. Now if only he’d listen to the demands and did more acting than talking…
Meanwhile, British Opposition Leader David Cameron made headlines with his anti-Twitter attitude and controversial statement during a chat on Absolute Radio.
“Too many twits might make a twat,” he said, stating that the problem with Twitter is “the instantness.”
But whether he likes it or not, I’m certain his usage of the word “twat” on live radio was “instantly” picked up by tweeters around the world.
Speaking of generational markers, tomorrow is the 40th anniversary of Woodstock. A generational signpost of the fight for peace accompanied by a soundtrack of Jimi Hendrix, The Who, Janis Joplin, Santana, and more.
Music has long been a companion of activism and so the EU and MTV are teaming up to educate people about climate change with a musical backdrop.
With the Play4Climate campaign, the EU is looking forward to achieve a new global climate agreement at December U.N. talks and is calling for global participation. “Climate action is a global problem and only global action can bring it under control,” their Website states.
“MTV is giving you the artists and the European Union are giving us the mandate for significant reductions in wasteful energy and resources in order to raise awareness and create action toward a more sustainable environment for all.”
Musicians involved are Moby, Metallica, Alessandra Amoroso, and others. They are all concerned with the global state of the environment and will be giving concerts and interviews encouraging people to do their part.
There will be a three-part series of concerts in Stockholm, Budapest, and Copenhagen as part of an awareness campaign. Moby is first up in Stockholm, the European Green Capital of 2010, next week.
“Let's make a change together by using the music with love with the planet we adore.”
Finally, Global Inheritance has come up with yet another innovative way to bring environment issues to people – via an amusement park. This month Environmentaland — Hollywood’s newest quirky theme park, was opened.
The park intended for kids and adults alike, features attraction such as an energy-generating see-saw, alternative energy-fueled golf carts, recycled paper plane takeoff, mini-bin exhibit and designing station, desert mini golf, planetarium, organic pet treats, and mini entertainment history museums encased in redesigned porta potties.
And to encourage sustainable travel, visitors who travel to the park via public transport pay NO ADMISSION as do students. The park also plans to host special events such as recycling drives, art shows, film screenings, and design contests. The park, sitting on the corner of Hollywood Boulevard, offers a nice balance to the extravagant cars, houses, and lifestyles that is Hollywood.
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