“There are so many various issues, but if we don’t have a livable world, really, what else are we doing? We have to tackle the issue that’s in front of us, which is ensuring a future for our children, for future generations.” — Liz Hurtado, Moms Clean Air Force 

In the November 28, 2023 GLR Learning Tuesdays webinar, Lisa Guernsey of New America moderated a conversation with Eric Bucher, Ed.D., of the Children’s Equity Project, Liz Hurtado of Moms Clean Air Force and Dr. Joshua Sparrow of Brazelton Touchpoints Center. The session began with an in-depth explanation from Sparrow about climate change and its impacts, both globally and on an individual level. Next, Hurtado shared more about environmental impacts on health, especially for young children. Bucher then drew connections between the importance of advocating for equity in the early childhood sphere and the realities of climate and environment. 

“Every child deserves to have a quality early care and education experience, and they deserve to have a space where they’re safe, where they’re healthy, where they have trusted caregivers who can build their bodies and their brains….We can’t ignore climate change if we are thinking about children as holistic learners, as holistic developers.”  — Eric Bucher, Ed.D., The Children’s Equity Project, ASU 

Some key takeaways from this conversation are:  

• Although the effects of climate change are dire, there is hope and action to be taken. 
• Children, and especially children in lower-income areas, are disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and climate change. 
• Youth voice needs to be part of the conversation. 
• Civic action and policy are crucial to effect change. 
• Disparate sectors need to come together and work collaboratively to address the growing challenges facing children to ensure a safe, healthy future.