Greta Thunberg: the young activist who changed the global dialogue on climate change
Una de las voces más influyentes en la lucha contra el cambio climático.
Greta Thunberg is a young Swedish activist who has become one of the most influential voices in the fight against climate change worldwide. Her passionate commitment to environmental protection and her ability to inspire millions of people—from students to world leaders—have made her a global symbol of climate action.
Career
Birth and early years
Greta Tintin Eleonora Ernman Thunberg was born on January 3, 2003, in Stockholm, Sweden. From an early age, Greta showed a passionate interest in environmental issues. Her mother, Malena Ernman, is a well-known opera singer, and her father, Svante Thunberg, is an actor and producer. This Swedish family not only instilled in Greta a love for the arts but also a sharp awareness of the importance of caring for the planet.
The beginning of her activism
Greta Thunberg’s activism began at an early age. At the age of 11, she learned about the climate crisis and was deeply affected by the lack of global action to address it. In August 2018, at just 15 years old, she began a solitary school strike in front of the Swedish Parliament to demand action against climate change. She held a sign that read “Skolstrejk för klimatet” (School strike for climate).
Major accomplishments
Influence on the climate movement
Greta Thunberg’s brave and determined act of skipping school to protest climate inaction became a global movement known as Fridays for Future. Millions of students around the world began to join school strikes, demanding concrete actions to address the climate crisis.
Appearances at the UN and the World Economic Forum
Greta Thunberg has delivered emotional and powerful speeches on major international platforms. In September 2019, she spoke before the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where she strongly criticized world leaders for their inaction in fighting climate change. She also addressed the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where she urged business and political leaders to take urgent measures to reduce carbon emissions.
Named TIME Person of the Year
In December 2019, Greta Thunberg was named TIME Person of the Year, becoming the youngest person ever to receive this honor in the magazine’s history. This further highlighted her global impact on the climate conversation and climate action.
Controversies and challenges
Greta Thunberg has not been free from controversy and criticism. Some detractors have questioned her lack of experience in the scientific or political field, arguing that her activism is driven by her youth and lack of expertise. However, Greta has responded to these criticisms by stating that she bases her message on science and on the urgent need to act in the face of the climate crisis.
Another point of controversy has been her use of boat travel to avoid flying, which some have seen as an extreme measure that is not feasible for most people. However, Greta has defended this choice as a way to reduce her own carbon footprint and to raise awareness about aviation emissions.
Legacy of Greta Thunberg
Greta Thunberg’s legacy is undeniable. She has inspired millions of young people around the world to take action to protect the environment and to demand that world leaders take concrete measures against climate change. Her influence on the public conversation about climate has been deep and lasting.
She is an outstanding figure in the fight against climate change. Her commitment, courage, and passion have made her a role model for young people around the globe who seek to make a positive impact on the environment and on society at large.
Despite the controversies and criticisms she has faced, Greta Thunberg has remained focused on the urgent need to address climate change. Her legacy will endure as a reminder that one person, regardless of age, can spark meaningful change in the world when they stand up and fight for what they believe in.
Greta Thunberg continues to be a powerful voice and a tireless advocate for climate action, and her influence will keep inspiring future generations to take action in the fight against the climate crisis.
