Pre-reading questions:
- Are you an advocate for climate rights? Why or why not?
- In your opinion, what are the most pressing climate-related issues facing the world today?
Vocabulary:
- concept /KON-sept /
- extreme /ik-STREEM/
- current /KUR-uhnt/
- ensure /en-SHOOR/
- reality /ree-AL-i-tee/
[noun] – a principle or idea
A concept is an abstract idea, and it can be difficult to understand without concrete examples.
[adjective] – very severe or bad
Exercising for a long time in hot weather can be extreme and potentially dangerous if you don’t take proper precautions.
[adjective] – of the present time
The current situation in the world is challenging, but we must remain optimistic and work together to overcome it.
[verb] – to make something certain to happen
In order to ensure that everyone stays safe, it is important to wear a mask and practice social distancing during the pandemic.
[noun] – the state of things as they are, rather than as they are imagined to be
While it is important to have dreams and aspirations, it is also important to face reality and make plans based on what is realistically achievable.
Article reading:
At their core, climate rights are about justice between generations. Past and present generations have contributed to a warming planet, rising sea levels, and extreme weather conditions that threaten the survival of future generations. Advocates of climate rights argue that those who will bear the brunt of these impacts have the right to a livable future and that it is the responsibility of current governments and individuals to take action to ensure that they are not left to suffer the consequences of our collective inaction. Despite the compelling argument for climate rights, there are significant obstacles to making it a reality.
In conclusion, as we tackle the challenges of climate change, it is crucial that we consider the needs and rights of those who will inherit the planet from us. Climate rights are an essential step towards a more sustainable future, and we must work together to make it a reality.
Comprehension questions
- What is the concept of “climate rights” about?
- Why do advocates of climate rights argue that future generations have the right to a livable future?
- What are some of the consequences of our collective inaction on climate change?
- What are some of the significant obstacles to making climate rights a reality?
- Why is it crucial to consider the needs and rights of future generations as we tackle the challenges of climate change?
Discussion questions
- Could you give me an example of a concept of climate rights that was integrated into policy-making in your country? Could you tell me more about it?
- Based on your experience, what are some of the most effective strategies for increasing awareness and support for the concept of climate rights?
- If future generations were able to speak for themselves, how do you think they would advocate for their own rights?
- Do you agree that future generations have a fundamental right to a stable and habitable environment?
- How do the actions of current and past generations affect the ability of future generations to thrive, and what can be done to address this issue?