Children as Agents of Change for the Future

Abstract

Children are not only capable of learning and adopting sustainable behaviours but also can be influencers and sustainability actioners to motivate others to make these behaviour changes in their communities and around the world. Their ability to reach wide public audiences is a result of globalised social media platforms and increased visibility through documentaries and TV shows. This not only allows them to reach out to their peers but also to influence people of multiple generations to incorporate sustainable practices into their daily routines. Schools systems are also understanding the importance of embedding lessons and extracurricular activities with sustainable themes, which allows students to use their creativity to explore these topics further. National and global organisations are encouraging children and youth to spread messages of sustainability through competitions, which gives them the opportunity to use resources from well-funded organisations to help spread their message. These multi-faceted opportunities give children a variety of ways to utilise their skills and creativity to reach a wide and diverse audience.

Citation

Hugo, N. (2022), "Children as Agents of Change for the Future", Séraphin, H. (Ed.) Children in Sustainable and Responsible Tourism, Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 189-199. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-80117-656-920221014