Environmental Education for Children: The Striking Balance of Children and Environment – Elder Sola Alamatu
Introduction:
Environmental education is more than just promoting the sustainability of nature; it refers to the process of promoting awareness and increasing knowledge about environmental issues. This process allows individuals to engage in creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and action planning, which enables them to participate more actively in their communities and related environmental work.
Meet Elder Sola Alamatu, a Nigerian environmental activist and the Founder of Children and the Environment (CATE), an organisation that promotes the importance of environmental awareness in children through creativity.
From her years of experience, she has established the fact that children are motivated to explore, find out how and why things work, and develop their own ideas about complicated environmental matters instead of simply receiving information. Children are quick to absorb information and mimic occurrences. The experience of connection to the environment is an important factor for younger generations, as our childhood experiences play a great part in shaping us into our present selves. Therefore, it’s only natural that children are aware of their environment, especially at an early age.
A Childhood Driven by Passion:
Elder Sola’s profound connection with the environment took root during her school years through her cherished subject, “Nature Studies.” This initial spark was nurtured by her deep affection for nature’s elements – the lush greenery, captivating animals, majestic mountains, enduring rocks, and the boundless oceans. Her travels further fueled her admiration for mountains and rocks, inspiring in her a desire to enrich her understanding beyond mere financial gain. Driven by her unwavering love for both the environment and children, she brought her aspirations to life by founding CATE, a non-profit organization that seamlessly blended her passions for nature and the well-being of children.
Emotional rollercoaster:
Climate anxiety, which lacks a universally accepted definition, can be understood as an escalated sense of distress associated with the climate crisis. This distress manifests through a complex interplay of heightened emotions like fear, sorrow, anger, and a sense of powerlessness. Elder Sola’s journey has been marked by a spectrum of feelings, encompassing bitterness, sorrow, and disillusionment. Unfortunately, there exists no replacement for environmental awareness, given the lack of concern two decades ago. The connection between children and the environment raises consistent inquiries due to their limited exposure and diminished connection compared to their upbringing. To re-establish this bond, the establishment of man-made parks and lakes becomes imperative.
Another emotion is fear. Fear arises from government inaction due to a lack of cooperation in addressing environmental issues. Tourism in Nigeria, which brings financial benefits, is not present due to poor hygiene and unsuitable conditions. Air pollution, particularly in Lagos and River States, also causes anxiety and fear for both children and adults, potentially leading to lung issues and breathing problems. The economy has led to a lack of interest in the environment and nature, causing concerns for future generations.
Response to change: Active participation
Elder Sola seeks out beautiful beaches and engages in regular clean-ups with environmental organisations. She engages with young volunteers and participates in monthly parks. She runs a green festival, promoting environmental issues through creative art, dance, drama, poetry, and music, exposing young people to nature experiences. This exposure helps them associate nature with love, care, and curiosity, fostering a connection to environmental issues and encouraging sustainable practices.
Advice to Young Environmental Champions:
“To keep moving”, Elder Sola recommended a few opinions. One is to find your passion and pursue it, as it will keep you motivated. Surround yourself with nature, join environmental organisations, and work with like-minded individuals. Influence younger minds and seek opportunities to speak to higher authorities. Share your experiences to make an impact.
Elder Sola emphasises that educating oneself and a community about the environment from a young age has the potential to increase their curiosity and enthusiasm for nature, climate change, environmental concerns, and safeguarding our planet. By nurturing this passion early on, we increase the likelihood of raising a generation of committed environmental advocates who will carry on leading sustainable lifestyles throughout their lives.