Thousands of Australian children are leaving school to attend protests, calling for action on climate change.
An estimated 50,000 students are expected to attend the Climate Strike for rallies across the country.
It is a recent youth campaign that aims to take action on the climate crisis.
Australia has long faced criticism for refusing to set massive emissions standards.
The Motivation Behind Climate Action Rallies
David Soriano, a 17-year-old who attended the Syndey conference told the BBC he was worried about the future and wanted the government to see the youth movement as “something to be fought for”.
“We are scared and worried. We doubt that there may not be a future reserved for future generations, even our own generation,” he said.
Mr Soriano said he had experienced rising temperatures and low air quality, in Western Sydney where he lives.
What Are The Demands Of The Protestors?
Protesters also demanded an end to any new coal, oil and gas projects in Australia, including the controversial Adani mine.
India’s Adani Enterprises has attracted criticism in parts of Australia for building a new hot coal mine.
Protesters are demanding 100% renewable energy production and exports by 2030, as well as plans to transform fossil fuels.
“I am also afraid of my extended family in the Philippines who, due to climate change, have been experiencing severe storms in unexpected ways,” said Mr Soranio.
“I hope the government will hear our voices,” he added.
Australia’s Climate Policy Criticism
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has faced ongoing criticism of climate change policy and international pressure to intensify efforts to reduce pollution.
At a global climate summit last month, Mr Morrison did not pay much attention to calls to set bigger carbon emissions targets while other major nations promised deeper cuts.
“Future generations… will thank us not for what we have promised, but what we deliver,” Mr Morrison said at the summit.
Australia is one of the world’s largest fossils emitter.
The country has been warming at an average of 1.4C since the start of the world record in 1910, according to its scientific and weather organizations.
This has led to an increase in the number of extreme weather events, including forest fires.
The government has said the move to reduce greenhouse gas emissions will focus on technology.
It relies heavily on gas-led reforms, and plans were announced this week for a new $ 600m ($ 465m; £ 328) power plant in New South Wales.
Critics say Australia should not focus too much on gas, instead investing in renewable energy sources.
