"Amidst growing climate impacts, recent events highlight the need for action. Where is Greta Thunberg now? Is she still inspiring young people despite challenges?"
In an era where the impacts of climate change are increasingly felt across the globe, recent events serve as stark reminders of the urgent need for environmental action. From Vietnam’s state of emergency due to scorching temperatures that dried up rice fields, to the Philippines suspending classes amid sweltering heat exceeding 107 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius), and the United Arab Emirates experiencing its most powerful rainstorm ever on April 16, 2024, causing widespread flooding. These events show that climate change is real and affecting us all.
Amidst this backdrop of environmental upheaval, the name Greta Thunberg resurfaces—a young girl catapulted to international fame for her unwavering climate activism. But where is she now? Is she still advocating for change? And, in the face of criticism and rebellion, does she continue to inspire young people?
Early Life
Greta Thunberg, born Greta Tintin Eleonora Ernman Thunberg on January 3, 2003, in Stockholm, Sweden, discovered the urgency of climate change at a remarkably young age. Her awakening to the problem occurred in 2011 when she was just eight years old. She couldn’t understand why so little was being done about such a serious matter. She was severely impacted by this knowledge.
By the time she turned eleven, the weight of this understanding had taken a toll on her health. Thunberg stopped speaking and eating as much, ultimately shedding ten kilograms in just two months. This period resulted in her diagnoses of Asperger’s syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and selective mutism.
After nearly four years of grappling with depression, Thunberg’s journey towards activism began with her efforts to change her family’s lifestyle. At the age of fifteen, she escalated her activism by organising school strikes to advocate for increased climate action in Sweden. Standing outside the Swedish parliament with her “School Strike for Climate” sign, she distributed educational fliers calling for more decisive action to combat climate change.
Over time, her advocacy work gained traction, and she found solidarity within the Fridays for Future movement, where she highlighted the inclusivity of individuals with autism. Her impact transcended climate activism, earning her the reputation of not only a prominent voice for environmental concerns but also for autism awareness.
On Activism
Greta Thunberg’s activism has been characterised by her unwavering dedication to the Fridays for Future movement. Her bold actions served as a catalyst, inspiring hundreds of thousands of students worldwide to join the Fridays for Future movement. This grassroots movement saw strikes taking place in various countries, including Belgium, Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Finland, Denmark, France, and the Netherlands, among others.
As Thunberg’s profile grew, so did the demand for her voice on the global stage. She received numerous invitations to speak about climate change at prestigious events. She delivered speeches at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, and the European Parliament, as well as before the legislatures of Italy, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Her speeches resonated widely, drawing attention to the urgency of climate action and challenging world leaders to take meaningful steps.
One of the most memorable moments in Thunberg’s activism came in September 2019, during her appearance at a UN climate event in New York City. Thunberg’s speech at the UN event captured global attention as she accused governments of stealing her dreams and childhood with empty promises. Her words struck a chord, fueling a surge in climate strikes that mobilised millions of protesters across 163 countries that month.
Thunberg’s impact on public perception and behaviour surrounding climate change has been widely recognised, with her influence famously dubbed “the Great Effect.” Through her unyielding advocacy and willingness to challenge established norms, Thunberg has reshaped the discourse on climate action, emphasising the urgent need for collective responsibility and meaningful change.
Consistently Speaking Out
On April 6, 2024, at the age of 21, Greta Thunberg found herself in the spotlight once again, this time for her involvement in a demonstration in the Netherlands where she was detained twice by police. Thunberg and a group of fellow marchers took to blocking a main road to protest against fossil fuel subsidies—a direct action aimed at raising awareness about climate change issues.
According to reports, over 400 individuals, including Thunberg and twelve others on charges of incitement, were arrested during the protest. Despite the initial detention, activists later confirmed that Thunberg had been released.
Thunberg was initially held briefly by local police along with other demonstrators who were trying to block a major highway into The Hague. After her release, she joined a smaller group obstructing another road near the railway station. During this protest, Thunberg was detained again and taken away by police.
Her ongoing activism and readiness to challenge authorities show her strong dedication to advocating for urgent climate action. By taking these actions, Thunberg not only raises awareness about important environmental issues but also encourages others to join the fight against climate change.
Inspiring Young People
Despite facing criticism and even arrest, Greta Thunberg remains steadfast in her commitment to environmental activism and the urgent need to protect our planet. Many older individuals have been quick to dismiss her, labelling her as a know-it-all and suggesting she should live a more conventional childhood. Some famous critics of Thunberg include former U.S. President Donald Trump and Brazil’s far-right leader Jair Bolsonaro. (Checkout How Climate Change is Affecting Young People the Most)
Thunberg’s message is clear: humanity must take immediate action to combat climate change, as our planet faces increasing pollution and environmental degradation due to human activities. She tirelessly encourages young people to raise their voices and take a stand for their future, urging governments to prioritise nature conservation over economic interests.
For teenagers, Thunberg serves as an inspirational figure—an embodiment of the idea that age is not a barrier to making a difference. Her activism began at a young age, highlighting the power of youth in advocating for change. Thunberg’s unwavering dedication and fearlessness in challenging world leaders have resonated deeply with young people worldwide, empowering them to take action and demand a sustainable future for generations to come.
For more stories about inspirational persons, check out George Goh Ching Wah: The Successful Journey from Factory Sweeper to Billionaire.
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