As Earth Day approaches, the organization OSPIRG Students is hosting online events for Youth Earth Week to encourage sustainable living.
University of Oregon Freshman Keaton Ibendahl’s perception of climate change shifted when she moved from Missouri into the dorms in Eugene last fall during Oregon’s historic, state-wide wildfires. She had always been aware of climate change, but hearing fellow students’ experiences and driving through the aftermath in the McKenzie River area made the issue tangible.
“It really shifted my perception of climate change as something that was very far away and wouldn’t personally affect me to really make climate change very present and real to me,” said Ibendahl.
As Earth Day approaches, the organization OSPIRG Students is hosting online events for Youth Earth Week to encourage sustainable living. OSPIRG Students collaborated with students from colleges in the region, including OSU and LCC to create local events for this national campaign.
Ibendahl is one of the student coordinators. Events include things like Meatless Monday where participants will share dinner via Zoom and Trash-free Tuesday to encourage neighborhood clean ups.
“We’re really hoping young people will gain skills related to sustainability that they can take back to their communities to make changes both in their own lives as well as within their families, schools, cities and states.”
A virtual Youth Climate Summit will be held on Earth Day, April 22nd.
Even though the events are youth-focussed, all participants are welcome. More information can be found at OSPIRG Students website or their Instagram.
