Young Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg on Thursday accused world leaders of “ignoring” climate change, warning them that the next generations will judge them.
• Read also: Summit of NATO leaders on June 14 in Brussels
• Read also: Climate and human activities endanger Africa’s rainforest
• Read also: Climate: Xi Jinping to participate in virtual summit organized by Biden
“How long do you think you can continue to ignore climate change (…) without being held to account?” », Launched the young girl speaking by videoconference in front of a commission of the American Congress, on the sidelines of the climate summit organized by Washington.
In a harsh, accusatory speech, the 18-year-old girl reminded elected officials that the Paris agreement concluded in 2015 plans to keep global warming below + 2 ° C, if possible + 1.5 ° C, compared to the pre-industrial era.
“Climate change does not exist in public debate today,” she regretted. “And of course, since the debate does not exist and the level of awareness is ridiculously low, you are contributing with impunity to the destruction of the present and future environment.”
“You get by today, but sooner or later people are going to achieve everything you have done,” she warned them. “You still have time to do the right thing and to preserve your legacy honestly, but this window will close.”
“We, the young people, are the ones who will talk about you in the history books. We will choose how you will be remembered. Make the right choices, ”she added.