Greenpeace leader Kumi Naidoo this week applauded the work and enthusiasm of young environmentalists during a talk with Durban Girls High School pupils.
The human rights and environmental activist addressed the pupils at the invitation of its Grade 8 environmental club.
He told pupils about his organisation's work and encouraged them to get involved in saving the planet, saying a friend had once advised him not to die for the cause but rather to dedicate the rest of his life to it.
Naidoo said he was always inspired by the initiative shown by young people in environmental matters, more so than the outcome of many of his interactions with governments and businesses, where often "every conversation is a depression". This, because the latter "agree with the ideas but continue with business as usual", whereas young people try to bring about change.
School Enviro Club leader Kendall Dorrofield, 18, said the talk had been informative and that she was glad to hear that her peers' efforts were making a positive difference.
The club has been involved in various environmental clean-ups and fundraisers for animal charities. It recently registered with the international Eco-Schools programme, which promotes environmental management and learning, in a bid to achieve Green Flag status.
"It was interesting to find out what Greenpeace is all about and about the work they do. It's nice to know that he [Naidoo] appreciated what our school is doing as well," said Kendall.
School safety and environment leader Mbali Mbunda, 17, said "the fact that the world is realising that innovative ideas are going to come from young people" was the part of Naidoo's speech which resonated with her the most.
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