Who is Greta Thunberg and why is she associated with climate change? - Create a Fact File - worksheet
Greta Thunberg is a Swedish environmental activist who has become a prominent figure in the fight against climate change. Born on 3 January 2003, she first gained international attention in August 2018 when she started protesting outside the Swedish parliament, calling for stronger climate action. Holding a sign that read "Skolstrejk för klimatet" (School strike for climate), Thunberg's solo protest eventually inspired students around the world to take part in similar demonstrations, giving rise to the 'Fridays for Future' movement. Her candid speeches, in which she criticises world leaders for their inaction on the urgent issue of climate change, have resonated with a global audience and have brought her to speak at high-profile events including the United Nations Climate Action Summit.
Climate change is a critical topic because it represents a significant and escalating threat to the environment, human health, and the economy. The phenomenon is characterized by changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, sea levels, and weather extremes, driven largely by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes. These changes have profound effects on natural systems and biodiversity, as well as on food and water security for people across the globe. The urgency of the issue is underscored by the need to prevent irreversible damage to our planet and ensure a sustainable future for all. Greta Thunberg's activism has played a vital role in raising awareness and motivating people, especially the younger generation, to demand action to mitigate climate change.
