Think heroes need superpowers to save the planet? Think again. Many young people are springing into action to solve environmental problems.
Each year, leaders ages 8 to 16 receive International Young Eco-Hero Awards. Let's meet a few of these eco heroes.
Aarushi Wadhwa, United States
American teen Aarushi Wadhwa knew that water is a precious resource. People everywhere use fresh water for crops. And a lot is lost to overwatering, evaporation, wind, and runoff.
That's why the young scientist invented a new way to water plants: the Aqua-Pod. Tucked into the soil near plants, it delivers water directly to the roots.
Ivanna Ortega Serret, Mexico
Ivanna Ortega Serret lived near the Madín Dam in Mexico. The dam supplied drinking water. It was also a home for fish and waterbirds. Then the water became polluted.
The sight broke Serret's heart but not her spirit. Though she was only 12, she spoke to government leaders. She also started volunteer clean-up crews. Her efforts have helped the area begin to improve.
Nithin Parthasarathy, United States
One day at a bagel shop, California high school student Nithin Parthasarathy saw unsold food tossed into the trash. This troubled him. First, he knew there were many hungry people. Second, food waste takes up space in landfills and gives off a type of greenhouse gas as it breaks down.
Parthasarathy formed a group to collect leftover food from shops and restaurants. The food is delivered to people in need. His group has given away more than $300,000 worth of food. This has helped his community and the planet.
Lesein Mutunkei, Kenya
Lesein Mutunkei was a teen athlete with big goals. He lived in the country of Kenya. Chopping down trees had caused environmental damage there. So the soccer player promised to plant trees for every point he scored. Knowing the value of teamwork, he signed up thousands of volunteers. His group Trees4Goals has so far planted over 1,000 trees.
Like other Eco-Hero Award winners, Mutunkei didn't wait for adults to lead the way. "My message to young people is," he said, "you're never too young to make a difference."
Think about the article. Why is food waste bad for the planet?
A.Food waste in landfills gives off a greenhouse gas.
B.Food waste leads to fewer volunteer clean-up crews.
C.Food waste in landfills keeps away a greenhouse gas.
D.Food waste leads to more overwatering and evaporation.