Reflection

I firmly believe that youth activism is pivotal to combating climate change. My journey in this movement began in 2022 when I stood in front of The Government Complex Seoul, participating in a protest organized by Fridays for Future. My team from a club, “Greener Is Cleaner” and I demanded action and change, driven by the urgent need to address the climate crisis. This experience heightened my awareness of the impacts of climate change on our environment. One of the most recent striking realizations came from a simple observation: the skyrocketing prices of apples, a fruit I have always enjoyed eating to snack. During an apple-picking trip with friends to a nearby orchard, we encountered an unusual increase in insects and pests. Research revealed that the source of the decrease in apples was caused by inconsistent weather patterns, including excessive rainfall and heat waves, leading to a surge in fruit pests and diseases, resulting in a 30% decrease in the apple harvest. (KoreaTimes) Beyond recycling and other common environmental practices, I thought from this experience that it is crucial to raise awareness about how climate change can disrupt even the most ordinary aspects of our lives. The decline in apple quality is a stark example of how pervasive and devastating climate change can be. In my piece, I depict myself in an apple orchard, reaching for an apple that appears perfect from where I stand. However, upon closer inspection, the apple is deformed by parasites in the back, symbolizing the hidden but profound effects of climate change, creating a juxtaposed effect. Through this artwork, I hope to convey the message that climate change is not a distant or abstract issue—it affects our daily lives in tangible ways. By raising awareness and inspiring action, I believe we can work towards a future where the simple pleasures of life, like enjoying a fresh apple, are not compromised by the consequences of environmental negligence.