In Minnesota, a group of passionate teenagers recently gathered to take direct action against climate change, participating in conservation activities that not only alleviate their climate anxiety but also foster community.
Teens Take Action: Minnesota's Green Crew Tackles Climate Anxiety

Teens Take Action: Minnesota's Green Crew Tackles Climate Anxiety
A new environmental initiative, the Green Crew, empowers Minnesota teens to combat climate anxiety through hands-on conservation projects.
On a sunny Saturday morning in Minnesota, a diverse group of teenagers convened at a wooded area, eager to roll up their sleeves for a day of environmental work. Among them were future robotics engineers, marine scientists, aspiring artists, and athletes, all united by one goal: to enact meaningful change in response to their climate concerns.
Leading the charge was 18-year-old Sophia Peterson, head of the Green Crew, a youth-driven environmental organization born in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro area. The initiative encourages young people to convert their fear regarding climate issues into direct engagement through tree planting, trail restoration, and invasive species removal.
"We want to make a difference," Sophia said to her fellow crew members, expressing her enthusiasm. “Let’s get started!”
The Green Crew exemplifies a growing wave of youth activism aimed at tangible environmental solutions, showcasing how teenagers can actively participate in local conservation efforts. Their work not only benefits the environment but also empowers the youth, transforming feelings of helplessness into proactive change.
The initiative has been well-received, and the Green Crew plans to expand its projects in the coming months, inspiring more teens to join in and take action against the urgent threat of climate change.