Greta Thunberg

Definition

Greta Thunberg is a Swedish environmental activist known for her efforts to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability. She gained international recognition for her school strike for climate movement, which began in 2018 when she protested outside the Swedish parliament, urging stronger action against climate change. Her activism has sparked a global youth movement focused on environmental policy and climate action, encouraging people to hold leaders accountable and push for urgent reforms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Greta Thunberg began her activism at the age of 15 by skipping school to protest outside the Swedish parliament, which inspired students worldwide to join her cause.
2. Her speeches at various international forums, including the United Nations Climate Change Conference, have emphasized the urgency of addressing climate issues and the moral responsibility of leaders.
3. Thunberg was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019 and 2020, highlighting her influence and impact on the global climate movement.
4. She founded the Fridays for Future movement, which has mobilized millions of young people around the globe to demand immediate action on climate change.
5. Greta's straightforward communication style and ability to connect emotionally with her audience have made her a powerful voice in the fight against climate change.

Review Questions

• How has Greta Thunberg's activism influenced global awareness and policy regarding climate change?
  • Greta Thunberg's activism has significantly raised global awareness about climate change and the urgency of environmental policy reform. By mobilizing young people through the Fridays for Future movement, she has brought attention to the need for immediate action from political leaders. Her speeches at high-profile events have inspired discussions on climate justice and accountability, influencing both public opinion and political agendas related to environmental issues worldwide.
• In what ways did Greta Thunberg challenge traditional notions of activism through her approach to environmental issues?
  • Greta Thunberg challenged traditional activism by emphasizing youth participation and using social media platforms to amplify her message. Unlike many conventional activists who rely on established organizations, she directly engaged with the public through striking visuals and emotional storytelling. This grassroots approach not only galvanized students across the globe but also pressured policymakers by creating a sense of urgency that traditional methods often lacked.
• Evaluate the impact of Greta Thunberg’s speeches on international climate negotiations, particularly in relation to agreements like the Paris Agreement.
  • Greta Thunberg's speeches have had a profound impact on international climate negotiations by framing climate change as an existential crisis that requires immediate action from world leaders. Her direct criticism of insufficient progress under agreements like the Paris Agreement has compelled many nations to reconsider their commitments and strategies regarding carbon emissions. By putting pressure on decision-makers, she has helped shift public discourse towards a more urgent acknowledgment of climate science, leading to increased advocacy for more ambitious climate targets globally.

Related terms

Climate Change: A long-term alteration of temperature and typical weather patterns in a place, often attributed to human activities such as fossil fuel burning.

Fridays for Future: A global movement initiated by Greta Thunberg where students skip school on Fridays to protest for climate action, demanding that leaders prioritize environmental policies.

Paris Agreement:

An international treaty adopted in 2015 aimed at reducing carbon emissions and limiting global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels.