Plant-for-the-Planet Academy Durban (South Africa), 31 October 2011

On the 31^st October 2011 the Plant-for-the-Planet Academy was held at New West Secondary School in Veldcastle Drive Newlands West, Durban. The Academy was a great success: the participating children received an empowerment to become official Climate Justice Ambassadors.

Over the course of the Academy the children learned about the major issues surrounding the climate crisis from a previously empowered Climate Justice Ambassador. They learned what they could do as part of the Plant-for-the-Planet Children’s Initiative to take action to solve the climate crisis and secure a better future and were also encouraged to develop their own ideas for future initiatives. The children spent time outside planting trees as both a symbolic and practical action to solve the climate crisis. Also included in the event was a workshop where the children could practice and improve their public speaking and presentation skills.

During the academy in New West there were intensive discussions about decarbonisation, greenwashing and the inactivity of today’s political leaders. None of the participants was older than the UN climate convention negotiations. The school has an impressive 2000 m² Bio-“garden” and has already undertaken different projects related to climate protection.

At the conclusion of the event the children were certified as official Climate Justice Ambassadors. With their newly acquired knowledge and skills these Climate Justice Ambassadors are ready to take on any challenge. The children will now be working in and around Durban to spread the word and educate other children and adults about the climate crisis and the need for climate justice. They also have the know-how to organise local planting activities and future Academies. The children have been empowered as part of a global network of Plant-for-the-Planet children. Look out for the active Climate Justice Ambassadors around Durban!

While the adults are merely talking about the issues surrounding the climate crisis, the children are taking action! You too can support the Plant-for-the-Planet Campaign to “Stop Talking. Start Planting.” and help the children to fight for a better future.

Thank you to Deutsche Post DHL and Toyota Financial Services for sponsoring the event.