As an intern at Plug ‘n Drive I have spent a fair bit of time volunteering at events. Each event is unique and ranges from the car enthusiasts at the Auto Show to curious shoppers at the International Home Show. For March break I was at the Science Centre. As a student and member of the millennial generation that is supposed to be the change happen and save the world, speaking to children and involved parents at the Science Centre had a huge impact on me.
I am an
avid believer, (and a preacher at times), in educating the world’s youth on pressing
matters, whether it’s environmental issues such as climate change or global
endemics like hunger and water shortages. In my opinion, change is moving
slowly. A significant reason for this is a lack of knowledge. If people are not
proactive, they'll never learn more than what is . A mindset
shift needs to happen in order for humans to progress in an environmentally sustainable
way and I think the only place to start is with our children.
Kids
are curious. They ask questions. But at the same time, they are simple. The
concept of an electric vehicle is also simple: a car that plugs in, charges and
then runs on a battery. Some already knew what an electric vehicle and was
almost offended when I tried explaining it (I guess I got a taste of my own
medicine at 9-years old), but those who were not aware were amazed and more
often than not I heard the statement, “I’m totally buying an electric car when
I’m older!” Now, it may seem naïve to put faith into these children who were
equally as excited when their hair stood on all ends while touching the static
ball but regardless they were learning and, more importantly, engaged.
The
one barrier to this solution of mine: most kids are not going to actively seek
information on a topic like electric cars, unless pizza and ice cream are
included and in abundance. So whom do we turn to? The parents. The education
system. The people that the youth turn to for answers. One father at the
Science Centre brought his 12-year old son with the hopes of someday passing on
his values of the environment. He prays that his values and outlook on life
will make a lasting expression on his son and when the time comes that he can
no longer voice his thoughts and concerns, his son will continue to live in a
sustainable way and teach the same message to his own children.
After
my visit to the Science Centre, I was truly inspired. Inspired by the kids who
were showing an interest in the future of this planet. Inspired by the millions
of questions I answered in one afternoon. Inspired by the parents who have
acknowledged a concern for the future of their children and future
grandchildren, simply by taking the time to open their child’s eyes to an
alternative way of thinking.
