Economic crisis silences young climate activists but Gen Alpha promises renewed fight

Young climate activists across Europe are looking for new forms of protest as turnout at 'Fridays for Future' marches has been falling.

In 2019, young climate activists, led by Sweden's Greta Thunberg, motivated millions to join marches around the world. But the Covid pandemic and internal divisions over the Middle East conflict negatively impacted the movement. Today, 'Fridays for Future' marches no longer capture much media attention.

Some experts say climate action - both on social media and on the street - is not a major concern for today's youth.

"Young people are much more unsettled by the economic crisis and the war in Ukraine, for example, than by the climate issue," Austrian youth researcher Bernhard Heinzlmaier told CGTN. "That is why the intensity of protest and public engagement is decreasing."

There's hope that a rebounding economy could lift young spirits and shift the focus back to climate action - not only in the classroom but also on the street.

Meanwhile, a new generation is filling classrooms ready to fight for the planet with their own methods.

Together with her classmates, 10-year-old Saraj from Vienna's Novagasse primary school is creating a large colorful sign that says 'Climate is future'. "We'll put the banner up where everyone can see it," she told CGTN. The sign won't directly stop CO2 emissions but shows how climate awareness is spreading at a very young age.

"I find it a bit sad when older people don't care about the climate," nine-year-old Daniel said. "Their children might also want to have a good life in future. And it's generally good for everyone if we protect the environment."

Teacher Francesco Spironelli describes his pupils as "a small society, inside of a class" eager to do something about the climate crisis. Together they have been learning a song called 'Mein Planet' ('My Planet').

"They were pushing each other and they said: 'oh it's a nice song - we can make some videos and we post it on Tiktok where we can reach more people.' They want to make sure they have the opportunity also when they are older to live this kind of life," Spironelli added.

Last year, six Portuguese minors demanded climate action before the European Court of Human Rights. Also in Austria, children are fighting in court for the enshrined right to a healthy planet - so far without success. But climate activists hope pressure from Generation Alpha might step up pressure on governments worldwide.