The Age of Humans
Oral Communication Practice
“We have changed the world so profoundly, scientists have decided the Earth has entered a new phase of existence. Welcome to the Anthropocene: the age of humans.” Will we succeed or fail in finding ways to create a world in which we can thrive alongside the natural world? Watch the video and respond to the questions below.
1. What is the main message of the above video ?
2. What are some of the ways you can play your part in combating the climate crisis?
William J. Ripple, 70, professor of Ecology at Oregon State University
On the need for governments to take urgent action:
“Look at the data. Listen to the story that the earth is telling us. Unless we fundamentally and immediately transform our society – banning fossil fuels, capping carbon emissions, and reconfiguring our relationship with nature – the 21st Century will yield untold human suffering.”
Evelyn Hew, 37, founder of ChopValue Singapore, a business that upcycles used chopsticks into furniture
“We have always thought that Singapore lacked natural resources. Actually, we do have resources. It is our trash. . . In a city, where we have so many humans closely packed together, what you produce is waste. If you are creative, you can transform this waste into resources.”
Kathy Jetñil-Kijiner, 33, poet and climate change activist from the Marshall Islands
“I believe in the use of poetry and media and art to raise awareness on climate change. I began as an individual, as a poet, but through my journey, I began to also realise that it can’t just be an individual. It has to be a collective effort.”
Note: The Marshall Islands are one of the first few islands that will be submerged because of the climate crisis.
