The Quad sat down with two participants of Fridays for the Future, a weekly protest against non-environmentally friendly practices on Manhattan College’s campus. Fridays for the Future take place at 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. every Friday on the Quad. Join them in the strike for our planet’s well-being.

Interviews compiled by Caroline McCarthy & Kelly Kennedy

Zara Harris, Junior Communication Major

What made you want to get involved?

I wanted to get involved in the climate strike because I wanted to make myself aware of the issues and how we could take action on them.

Why is it important that we raise awareness on the rapid climate change?

It’s important to raise awareness because now is the time to take action. Everything we do is going to affect our future and the next generation’s future. We need to do something about it now before it’s too late.

What are some ways students can affect change on campus?

I think definitely doing research on your own. Figure out what you can do in little ways to help your environment whether that’s carrying a reusable cup or buying materials that are more eco friendly and well sourced.

Is there anything Manhattan College can improve our footprint?

I think we could definitely implement changes in how we do things in our dining hall. I’ve heard from the president of the Mother Nature Club that we have a lot of waste problems and there’s a lot we can do differently that would help the environment so much.

Enrique Martinez, Senior Political Science Major

What made you get involved in Fridays for the Future?

Definitely seeing all the situations especially the UN climate summit. That definitely brought it to my attention. I really want to get involved and help people know about the problem and its consequences. I see even on campus that people don’t take care of their trash correctly or take the time to recycle and felt I had to get involved.

Why is it so important to raise awareness for rapid climate change?

Because we only have one planet. We only have one run at this and we have to take care of our planet now. It’s only going to get worse if we don’t do anything about it. In 50-60 years, it’s going to be our kids who are affected by it.

In what other ways can students contribute to the climate strike?

Take a moment when you’re throwing things away and recycle stuff. Take the organic stuff out and recycle everything you can.

Do you think Manhattan College can do more?

I think there can be a stronger voice for environmental worries. Whenever there is climate strikes or other things going on I’d like to see more publicity and a stronger turn out.