Climate Justice: Why It Matters to Your Family and What You Can Do Today

Here in Suriname, when we talk about the climate, sometimes we think about rain or sunshine, or maybe news of big floods in other countries. But there’s a key idea that connects all of this to our lives, right here in Meerzorg, in Paramaribo, or in any corner of our beautiful nation: it’s called Climate Justice.

What is Climate Justice and Why Isn’t It Fair?

Imagine this: The world’s wealthiest nations, those with the most factories and cars, are the ones that release the most greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases warm our planet and cause climate change. And who suffers the worst consequences? Countries like ours, Suriname, which contribute very little to this global problem. That’s not fair!

This is where Climate Justice comes in. It’s not just about the environment; it’s about equity and human rights. It’s recognizing that the people and communities who are most vulnerable (whether due to their location, economy, or history) are the ones who feel the brunt of climate change most severely. Let’s think about:

• Rising Sea Levels: For us in Suriname, much of our population and our capital are at or very near sea level. This isn’t a distant threat; it’s something that affects our coasts, our homes, and the lands where we grow food. Is it fair for coastal families to lose their homes because of something they didn’t cause?

• Extreme Weather Events: Stronger floods, droughts that affect our farmers and fishermen. When traditional livelihoods are threatened, who feels it most? The families who depend directly on them to survive.

• Health and Well-being: Changes in disease patterns, access to clean water, food security. These problems are magnified by climate instability, directly affecting the health of our children and the peace of mind of parents.

As young people, you might feel frustrated seeing these injustices. As parents, it’s natural to worry about the future we leave for our children. Climate Justice tells us that we must fight for a world where the burdens and benefits of dealing with climate change are shared equitably. It’s not just about protecting the planet; it’s about protecting our people.

Suriname: We Are Not Just Victims, We Are Solutions

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by such a big problem. But here in Suriname, we have something incredible: we are a country with a vast and vital forest cover, which acts as a lung for the planet. We have communities with ancestral knowledge of how to live in harmony with nature. We are not just recipients of impacts; we are a fundamental part of the solution.

Our opinion is that Suriname’s role in climate justice is not to passively ask for help, but to demand equity and show the world how a country with such valuable natural resources can be an example of sustainability if given fair support and recognition.

What Can We Do Today, as a Family?

The good news is that climate justice begins at home, at school, and in our community. You don’t need to be scientists or politicians to make a difference. Here are some practical ideas and opinions on how your family can get involved:

1. Let’s Talk About It: Conversation is the first step. Parents, talk to your children about climate change and justice. Young people, ask questions, research, share what you learn with your friends and family. Knowing the problem empowers you!

2. Support Local and Sustainable: When we buy local products, we support our farmers and reduce the carbon footprint of transportation. Choosing products with less packaging or those that are reusable is an act of justice for the planet and for the communities most affected by waste.

3. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (and Refuse): The famous “3 Rs” rule is fundamental. But let’s add a fourth: Refuse what we don’t need, especially single-use plastics that end up polluting our rivers and coasts, affecting coastal communities and marine life.

4. Participate and Raise Your Voice: Learn about environmental initiatives in your community or in Suriname. Join river or beach cleanups, participate in school environmental education programs. If you’re young, your voice has incredible power. Ask your leaders, your teachers, your parents: “What are we doing to protect our Suriname?”

5. Learn from Our Culture: In Suriname, we have a rich history of living in harmony with nature. Connect with the traditions of indigenous and Maroon communities who have protected our forests and rivers for generations. There is much wisdom in their relationship with the land.

Climate Justice calls us to action. It invites us to think not only about ourselves, but about our neighbors, future generations, and equity for all. As families in Suriname, we have the power to be an example, to educate, and to demand a more just and sustainable future for our nation.

Do you think your voice counts in climate justice? What other action do you think we can take as a family here in Suriname? Share your opinion in the comments!