The Power of Youth - Purchase Students Combating Climate Change
November 20, 2025
Orly Keynan
SDG 13: Climate Action
Climate change is perhaps one of the most pressing challenges of our time. With the presidential election, a lot of very worried people are developing a “we’re doomed” sort of attitude when it comes to the planet. However, I think now is the time to use that concern and turn it into action rather than letting the dread consume us. When the government fails to advocate for our planet, self-advocacy is extremely important, and the youth are at the forefront of this advocacy. As the generation that will inherit the consequences of today’s environmental decisions, youth around the world are taking bold steps to create a more sustainable future. Their activism, innovation, and leadership are transforming the way societies address climate change, proving that age is no barrier to making a difference.
Young people bring a fresh perspective and unwavering passion to this issue that has fueled groundbreaking climate movements. Think Greta Thunberg with Fridays for Future or Vanessa Nakate from Uganda, who continues to advocate for climate justice and amplify voices from the Global South. Youth-led climate movements are reshaping policy discussions worldwide. From participating in United Nations climate summits to organizing large-scale protests, young activists are pushing governments and corporations to take responsibility for their environmental impact. Young people are especially important when it comes to organizing grassroots initiatives that have proven to make a big difference, such as tree-planting campaigns
waste reduction projects, and community education programs. These efforts demonstrate that climate action starts at the grassroots level and can have a significant impact over time.
Here at Purchase, there are many key examples of student-led and developed environmental programs. I think, generally, the Purchase College student body is a very environmentally conscious group, especially the Global Scholars who have found new environmental projects year after year. There are many ways for students to get involved and in control of the sustainability efforts on campus, ranging from sustainability internships, working with composting, the PSGA GreenFee council, the food recovery network, and the Sustainability Advisory and Outreach Committee. There’s also a constant flow of student-led events focusing on sustainability and climate action. In addition, the school’s extensive Environmental studies program trains students to be the planet’s most fierce advocates.
The 2024 Global Scholars cohort is a very environmentally-minded group. Many Global Scholars planned activities working towards SDG 13: Climate action. Some examples include a lesson on grassroots organizing, a meeting with the sustainability interns on campus, a day of planting and composting, a lesson on invasive species and plans to remove single-use plastics from the dining hall. We here at Purchase, especially us Global Scholars, have hope for our planet’s future, and we want to fight for it.
In the face of climate uncertainty, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but the youth of today, especially here at Purchase, are proving that action is the antidote to despair. From grassroots organizing to policy advocacy, young people are leading the charge for a more sustainable future. The Global Scholars and the wider student body continue to take meaningful steps toward real environmental change, demonstrating that hope is not just an idea; it’s something we build through action. As we work toward SDG 13, it’s clear that the fight for our planet is far from over, and with dedicated young leaders at the forefront, the future remains in capable hands. Now, it’s up to the rest of the world to stand with us and ensure that this momentum leads to lasting change.
2025 Cohort
