In the heart of Contra Costa County, a generation is rising up against the looming specter of climate change, and they’re not waiting for adults to save them. Young activists like Luci Olson are transforming climate anxiety into climate action, proving that teenagers aren’t just passive victims, they’re powerful agents of change.

The Youth Climate Revolution

At just 16, Olson is already a powerhouse in the environmental movement. As an outreach manager with the Bay Area Youth Climate Summit (BAYCS), she’s part of a grassroots organization run entirely by youth, for youth. Her message is clear: we’re going to suffer the consequences of climate change, but we also have the responsibility to fix it.

Breaking Down the Numbers

The stats are brutal. A recent survey revealed that 85% of young Americans are worried about climate change, with 57.9% feeling extremely concerned. Even more alarming? 42.8% say it’s impacting their mental health. But instead of succumbing to despair, these teens are channeling their anxiety into tangible action.

Local Heroes, Global Impact

Cities like Antioch and Brentwood are already implementing bold climate resilience plans. From banning future oil drilling to developing innovative water desalination projects, local governments are slowly but surely taking steps toward a more sustainable future. And driving these changes? The relentless passion of young activists who refuse to accept a doomed environmental narrative.

As Olson puts it, “It’s hard to have hope when everything seems so negative. But it’s really important to look at positive things”. Her generation isn’t just fighting climate change, they’re reimagining what’s possible.