“The greatest danger to the planet is the belief that someone else will save it.” – Robert Swan

On a mission to connect climate awareness with future careers, second-grade students of Šiauliai Julius Janonis Gymnasium took part in a powerful RYCA event that blended education, inspiration, and action. The event was part of the Responsive Youth for Climate Action (RYCA) project, co-financed by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union 🇪🇺.

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🎓 Learning from Experience: A Talk on Environmental Engineering

Students met with Rugilė Abukaitytė, a graduate of Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, who introduced the group to the Environmental Engineering study programme. She shared insights into:

• The interdisciplinary subjects in the curriculum
• Why environmental engineering is vital for the future
• How bioresources and sustainable food systems will shape tomorrow’s economy

The session emphasized that the future belongs to those who act for the planet, whether by designing green cities, managing resources, or developing high-value products from biological materials.

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💡 Choosing Careers with Purpose

In today’s rapidly changing world, predicting your future career can feel daunting—especially for young people. That’s why this event encouraged students to reflect not only on job titles, but on what truly matters to them.

The key takeaway?

Choose a path that aligns with your values. If those values include not wasting time or the planet—you’re on the right track.

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🎲 Climate Call Game and Local Action

The event continued with an interactive team activity: the “Climate Call” game. Through this educational challenge, students explored:

• The real-life impacts of climate change
• Practical ways individuals and communities can contribute to mitigation
• The importance of daily choices and systems-level thinking

Afterward, the students joined a discussion on how local actions can have global effects—especially in cities like Šiauliai, where sustainable transport options are readily available.

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🚲 Car-Free Day Relay

As part of their commitment to climate-friendly living, the students took part in the International Car-Free Day relay. Instead of cars, they chose bicycles and completed the challenge with enthusiasm and teamwork—showing that young people can lead by example in shifting toward greener habits.

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🌱 Students as Climate Ambassadors

In total, 54 students (20 boys and 34 girls) participated in the two-part event. Their energy, insight, and commitment made it clear: the next generation is ready to be ambassadors for climate change mitigation—in their families, schools, and communities.