Think heroes need preternatural powers to save the planet? Think again. Many young people are springing into action to solve environmental problems.
Each year, inspirational leaders ages 8 to 16 garner International Young Eco-Hero Awards from the organization Action for Nature. Let's meet a few of these down-to-earth heroes.
Aarushi Wadhwa, United States
American teen Aarushi Wadhwa knew that water is a precious resource. Worldwide, people use more fresh water for irrigation than for any other purpose, and a lot is lost to overwatering, evaporation, wind, and runoff.
That's why the young scientist developed an innovative new way to water plants. She invented the Aqua-Pod, which looks like a small sponge but is made of biodegradable materials such as coffee grounds and banana peels. Tucked into the soil near plants, it delivers water and nutrients directly to the roots.
Ivanna Ortega Serret, Mexico
People and wildlife alike relied on picturesque Madín Dam near Ivanna Ortega Serret's home in Mexico. The reservoir was a source of drinking water, as well as a home for fish and waterbirds…until it became contaminated by pollution and overgrown by invasive plants.
The sight broke Serret's heart but not her spirit. Though she was only 12, she rallied the community, creating a petition, lobbying government leaders, and organizing volunteer clean-up crews. Her diligent efforts have helped the ecosystem begin to recover.
Nithin Parthasarathy, United States
One day at a bagel shop, California high school student Nithin Parthasarathy was troubled to see unsold food tossed into the trash at closing time. First, he knew there were many hungry people who could benefit from that bounty of baked goods. Second, food waste takes up space in landfills and releases the greenhouse gas methane as it breaks down.
Parthasarathy cooked up a plan to collect restaurants' surplus food and deliver it to local groups that help people in need. His organization Zero Waste Initiative has already rescued and redistributed more than $300,000 worth of food, helping his community and the planet.
Lesein Mutunkei, Kenya
Lesein Mutunkei was a teen athlete with lofty goals. In his home country of Kenya, deforestation had caused environmental degradation, so the soccer player pledged to plant trees for every point he scored. Knowing the value of teamwork, he spread the word and enlisted thousands of volunteers. His organization Trees4Goals has so far planted over 1,000 trees.
Like other Eco-Hero Award winners, Mutunkei didn't wait for adults to lead the way. "My message to young people is," he said, "you're never too young to make a difference."
Which of these sentences is most important to include in a summary of this article?
Young people don't need superpowers to make a difference.
Food waste releases methane gas when it breaks down in landfills.
Invasive plants can have a negative impact on the ecosystems.
More fresh water is used for irrigation than for any other purpose.
1 answer
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