For young people today, the discussion surrounding climate change is a reality that has become part of their daily lives. Despite the oldest Gen Zers1 being just 25 years old, a 2021 Pew Research study found that nearly seven-in-ten Gen Zers (69%) say they felt anxious about the future given the discussion surrounding climate change.
In 2015, all United Nations Member States took a united approach to address the issue of climate change by adopting the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which established 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) that represent key action areas that all countries are called on to act on in order to address climate change.
Importantly, although a number of these SDGs focus on environmental matters that one would expect to address climate change, such as clean energy development, sustainable cities, climate action, and reduced consumption, ten of the 17 goals focus on matters related to human rights realizing that improving life and living on the planet for people goes hand in hand with addressing climate change.
While older Gen Zers find themselves ready to act on their concerns by voting, donating their time and money, younger Gen Zers are also acutely aware of the issues facing the world as they’ve seen human rights issues take center stage in the recent years, including refugee crises, the invasion of Ukraine and protests in Iran advocating for more rights for women.
In an ongoing effort to empower students to thrive as conscious global citizens and improve life and living on the planet, the Institute of ACS Athens is offering a range of masterclasses focused on sustainability and human rights as one avenue that parents can consider to help young people channel their concerns and transform anxiety into action.
For Middle School (Ages 11-13)
For High School (Ages 14-18)
- Human Rights – The Foundations
- Business and Human Rights
- Sustainability in the Fashion Industry
- Sustainability in the Security Industry
For more information about the masterclasses offered by the Institute of ACS Athens, please click here.
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1 Generation Z is defined as individuals born between 1997 and 2012.