Early on a bright Saturday morning in Minnesota, a gathering of teenagers converged at the fringes of an expansive forested area. Diverse in interests—ranging from robotics to marine science, art, and athletics—these youths had a shared mission: engaging in hands-on conservation work as a positive response to their climate change anxieties. "Cool," Sophia Peterson, the 18-year-old leader of this initiative, exclaimed to the group with enthusiasm. "Let’s get started."
The teenagers are members of the Green Crew, an environmental organization created by a fellow teen in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area. With the aim of helping their peers navigate the looming challenges posed by climate change, the Green Crew enables youth to channel their concerns into practical solutions and actions.
By participating in projects like tree planting, trail restoration, and invasive species removal, young people not only take meaningful steps toward environmental sustainability but also foster a sense of community and purpose. The initiative reflects a broader movement among youth today to seek constructive outlets for their worries and actively contribute to the health of the planet.
