Ditch the devices ... head outside!

What do you reckon to digital technology – do you think it’s incredible? You might not

even be able to remember a time without it. Today we’re able to stay connected to

our family and friends despite being miles away from them; we can learn about

almost anything at our fingertips; play ‘live’ interactive games and … be part of a virtual

team of Young Climate Warriors doing these challenges!

Have you ever thought about the energy needed to power the cloud, stream a film, or

play a video game – and that’s on top of the energy needed to manufacture the

devices in the first place? Our increasing use of digital technology is having an

increasing impact on climate change. Do you think the fact that energy used by our

devices seems almost ‘invisible’ makes it easier to waste?

Your challenge this week is to get outside - into your local park - and away from your

screens, reducing your carbon emissions. Getting outside into nature is good fun, and

also good for our well-being. Kick a football around, how many ‘keepie-uppies’ can

you manage? Set up a family obstacle track around the park? Take a thermos of hot

chocolate to drink under a tree? Try spotting some animal prints in the mud?

Can you think of any young inspiring sportspeople who are taking action to protect

our planet? Hector Bellerin, a 2025 BBC Green Sport Award winner, says that ‘with

power comes responsibility’ – you can hear him sharing his thoughts … he is

passionate about trying to live a more sustainable life. 17-year-old Innes FitzGerald

cross-country running champion turned down the opportunity to race in Australia as

she cannot justify flying given the climate crisis we are facing. Check out 18-year-old

Lesein Mutunkei’s ‘Trees4Goals’ initiative – as a popular Kenyan footballer he’s planting

trees every time he scores a goal. Some sports clubs are also taking action. Forest

Green Rovers is called the ‘greenest club in the world’ - ‘Cam’, a young fan, explains

why.

By taking time away from your screens, you are helping reduce your carbon footprint.

Let Kate know when you have taken a break from the digital devices by HITTING THE