Living on a small island, we are acutely aware of the fragility of our earth. The threat of receding coastlines or even the sight of litter spoiling our picturesque landscape is a stark reminder of our environmental issues. Our planet provides us with so much- life, food, entertainment, beauty, and especially special places such as Nantucket. It is our duty to give back and care for Mother Earth. While Earth Day, on April 22nd, serves as an important reminder of our environmental responsibilities, it's crucial to remember that these actions should be integrated into our daily lives, not just on a single day.
We face so many large-scale issues that knowing where to begin or how one person can make a difference may feel overwhelming. Recently, we have been inspired by a relatively new committee, The Youth Climate Committee. This group of dedicated Nantucket High Schoolers, formed together through the Massachusetts Audubon Society, is making an effort to bring awareness to environmental issues within the context of how the island is affected. Whether it's learning about properly recycling plastics or what exactly renewable energy is and its benefits, they believe that change can come from personal knowledge and small actions.
This is the first environmental program the Nantucket High School has offered, thanks mainly to the Mass Audubon Society for providing the opportunity after the Nantucket Climate Strike organized by some committee members last year. Member Maisie finds a group of like-minded young people who feel a mutual sense of urgency to help the environment as a step in the right direction. The key to reversing climate change for these students relies on the younger generation. 'Climate is the most pressing issue of our generation, especially living on the island,' explains committee member Brian. He believes that 'change starts from the bottom', and therefore, they aspire to gain more involvement from their peers and then broaden their awareness.
Even if you do not identify with younger generations, there are ways to become involved and make a difference. All are welcome to participate in the Youth Climate Committee's Climate Cafes: regular virtual, and hopefully soon in-person, meetings that discuss one specific issue the island faces. The most recent Climate Cafe discussed coastline preservation. The students presented jarring facts exemplifying the percentage of the island coastlines that storm flooding will potentially impact by 2070. A year that feels very close, even to those so young. Participants of the meeting offered insight into how to present the data to the town, allowing for a greater awareness of these issues and more mobility and resources for solving them.
The students also helped test a new environmental tracking app, Irys. This interactive app allows anyone to search for environmental issues specific to their location, participate in discussion boards, and post images of problems they see, such as erosion.
We feel inspired with renewed hope because the younger generation is passionate about tackling these environmental issues. We want to support them as much as we can. Nantucket Looms will promote future climate cafes and encourage everyone to join and learn how to protect our beautiful island better. We will also donate to the Youth Climate Committee through the Mass Audubon Society. We encourage our clients, vendors, staff, friends, and family to also play a role in a meaningful way that protects our Earth. It will take an island to make a difference.
Other Ways to Show your Support
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