Youngsters take action for the planet - Patiño from Spain in Belgium

Patiño Martín Nieves (27) is from Spain and worked for a year as a volunteer at the Oxfam World Shop in Ghent. She studied international development and dreams of working for the European Union.

What does your work as a volunteer at Oxfam look like?
"As a project officer, I organize campaigns and events. Fashion Week and Fair Fashion Fest were on my agenda. Participating in those events was one of the best experiences I've had. It gives enormous satisfaction to be able to see the results of my work. Fair Trade Week is the last event I'm participating in, which is also going to be fantastic!"

What motivates you to do this kind of volunteer work?
"I always wanted to live abroad and go on an exchange. I studied international development so found it important to gain foreign experience. In addition, I find ecological sustainability essential. Fairtrade fits perfectly with that and gives me the opportunity to engage in sustainability issues. And at the same time, I learn a lot."

Why the passion for climate?
"The world is in danger. It's crazy to me how so few people address it. That worries me. It is our role as young people in Europe, and by extension around the world, to fight for our future. It is up to us to bring about change. As a European, I am convinced that we need to get more involved and take more responsibility."

What climate-friendly things do you do in your daily life?
"I eat little meat, buy all my clothes second-hand and prefer public transport. By the way, did you know that having a child is just about the most polluting thing you can do as an individual? That's why I'm considering not having children."

Were you the Climate Minister, what would you do?
"I would turn to companies. How they handle the environment, waste management and recycling should be more regulated by policy. Currently, I think there is too much focus on the role of the individual in fighting climate change. To make real change, the biggest polluters must also adapt. Our personal efforts are insufficient if large multinationals do not take action."

Updated on Lunes, 08/05/2023