Students as change agents for healthier environments

Introduction: As the frequency of natural disasters (e.g. hurricanes, earthquakes, and tornadoes) has increased, climate change issues have been brought to the forefront, highlighting infrastructure deficiencies.  Climate change and adverse environmental issues are noticed globally; and, the accumulating health impact will have profound effects on future generations.  Therefore, it’s important to increase students’ awareness on the impact of climate change on public health, thereby empowering them to become change agents.  The Arthur Ashe Institute for Urban Health, in collaboration with the University of the West Indies, developed an experiential learning program for secondary school students in Trinidad & Tobago. 

Methodology: 18 students were recruited to participate in the 5-week program and were exposed to hands-on activities which touched the affective domain of learning.  Students learned about environmental issues, including climate change, and public health, and conducted research projects at seven non-governmental organizations (NGOs).    Students presented their findings and recommendations on an array of topics, including marine litter policies, reforestation, social media & climate change, and adverse health effects associated with rain and river water. Pre/post surveys were completed to assess the impact of the program.

Results: 80% of participants responded that a person’s physical environment greatly impacted one’s health.  In addition to increasing knowledge of climate change and environmental issues, 61% reported sharing information with their parents and 100% reported an intention to advocate for change within their community (e.g. “I’m going to start recycling in my school. Once I start small, it could influence others.”).

Conclusion:  Educating the next generation on the importance of the environment on public health is essential to addressing the accumulating effects of environmental issues on quality of life.  The research has increased students awareness and has been pivotal to increasing their capacity to be change agents in promoting a healthier environment.