Divya Chavan Jachak, a lawyer in Pune, has become a notable figure in the fight against climate change with her campaign, 'Pune Climate Warrior.'
Her initiative has reached 80 schools in the last year, not just in Pune but also in Sangli, Nagpur, and Phaltan, including Zilla Parishad schools and those associated with state and central boards. Jachak's program, which is supported by her mother, Vandana Chavan, a Rajya Sabha MP, aims to promote climate consciousness in youngsters, particularly those in grades six to nine.
While talking about climate action, Jachak stresses how important it is for kids to be real agents of change. She believes that by involving children, environmental responsibility can be instilled, and their curiosity and passion may be focused on creating a future in which young brains drive innovation and sustainable solutions. The effort follows a complete strategy based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for climate action, which includes a theme-based monthly activity schedule.
The campaign has received enormous support, even in Zilla Parishad schools and rural areas where awareness seminars are held. The program includes a teacher training component, in which educators from various schools participate. It includes engaging sessions with children, resulting in a joyful, activity-based learning environment. The activities include making climate change presentations and monitoring air quality, as well as planting trees, constructing butterfly gardens, and encouraging environmentally beneficial practices.
Jachak points to the value of training young minds as a long-term investment, as they will play an important role as tomorrow's guardians. Building on a year of experience, the project intends to host a "Youth Climate Summit" on January 27. During this session, students will discuss research-based measures that can be implemented at both the city and state levels. The purpose is to involve professionals and government stakeholders in talks about environmental issues, convey students' findings and demands, and advocate for their implementation. While MP Vandana Chavan talked about the importance of addressing climate change and the necessity for citizens to decrease their carbon footprint, saying, "We have no Planet B."