By Michron Robinson
The EcoActive Youth programme by Ashley Lashley is moving full steam ahead with its fight against climate change.
Among those cheering on the young activist is Minister of Sports, Youth and Community Empowerment Charles Griffith who said, “The Ashley Lashley Foundation is one of those non-governmental organisations that is doing a lot of work on the ground in this country as it relates to climate change and educating the young population about all of the dangers associated with climate change,” he said.
Minister Griffith said it would be great to see others putting in the work like the Ashley Lashley foundation is other areas.
“I wish more community-based organisations and non-governmental organisations would take up the fight as well and engage not only in climate change, but there is a whole range of different areas that they can get involved with to make communities stronger.”
Lashley told Barbados TODAY she is encouraged by the progress of the programme and prospects for the new year.
Speaking to the media in the car park of the Wildey Gymnasium on Wednesday morning, she said, “This initiative today was just the pilot programme, next year is when we’re looking at rolling out the full EcoActive Youth initiative across all the primary schools in Barbados. Students across Barbados understand what climate change is, their role in creating a healthy environment and having a healthy lifestyle,” she said.
Lashley, hopes for more support from corporate Barbados and the government in the venture.
Between September and November 30 this year the EcoActive Youth Campaign visited 20 schools over a 12-week period where students were given vital information on climate change.
Wednesday’s event featured fitness guru Spinny and popular entertainer Leadpipe.
Children from several different primary schools and their teachers came out for a morning of hype and aerobic exercises.
UK Charge d’Affaires, Craig Fulton during his address had only positive words for Lashley.
“It is only by working together on all levels, local and global, that we will be able to address the climate change challenges that we all face. That is why projects like these are so important. I would like to congratulate the Ashley Lashley Foundation on the successful culmination of their events,” he said.
Browne called in the little ones present to play their part as “earth defenders”.
“Your participation in this programme is a positive and welcomed indication of your interest and desire to protect the earth. Each of you must play your part to reverse these trends. You must see yourself as defenders of the earth,” he said.
The little ones spent the afternoon enjoying the jumping tents, the snow cone stand and pop up booths providing information on climate change. (MR)
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