TakingITGlobal

Section II: Education We believe that education is fundamentally important to combat climate change. Ignorance is frequently an impediment to change. We believe that governments must implement policies in our education systems and that youth are motivated to step forward. In order to change government policies, we must first change individual behaviours. Learning to change our own lifestyles and adapting to sustainable habits on our own soil is a basic principle in becoming involved. Although not everyone will desire change, we must begin to move forward and continue to create awareness through radio, print and social media campaigns, as well as volunteer-led communities. Teachings on management and environmental safety must also be implemented, because change is imperative. Shifting public perception surrounding the issue of climate change is essential to promoting individual action. Public education campaigns are a means by which this can be achieved. Examples include actions surrounding recycling, water conservation and the reduction of pollution. Provision of education may spread beyond the borders of a single country, through aid campaigns that train workers in developing countries. For example, offering engineers who are trained in building sustainable infrastructure to developing countries would educate local farmers about sustainable agricultural practices. The education of young people is essential to shifting the public perception towards climate change and motivating individuals to take action. It creates a foundation of knowledge for all future generations, and fosters within these generations an understanding of this issue and a respect for the environment. Climate change is an issue that affects every aspect of our lives, and curriculum should be altered to reflect this. The environment created within schools should also encourage environmental sustainability. In order to better manage funds, it is important that there is transparency and communication between governments receiving and donating financial and other resources. Donor governments should know exactly where funds have been spent and be able to verify whether funds have been appropriately spent. Increased access to information by donor governments would make corrupt governments accountable for their spendings. It is also imperative that local people are directly involved in deciding where funds need to be spent in their communities so as to avoid interfering with special interests. It is absolutely imperative that the Global North focuses on aiding countries with developing economies, by introducing green initiatives, educating local people, and supporting local initiatives and projects that are already in place. Mentoring these countries and sending experts from nongovernmental organizations to educate and train them will insure that the aid infrastructure that has been put in place is sustainable and continues to flourish. "Aid should be a cooperation between countries rather than a charity that might lead to deteriorated local industries." (Sweden) "If our learners care for the environment, they will lead other people to care and then such values begin to ripple through society, nations and the globe." (Philippines) "[In the USA] The term Global Warming has become the source of jokes, we need to have a campaign to awaken the public about the facts of climate change." (South Africa)

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