The United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) warned children in parts of Australia are ‘growing up prematurely’ on February 19, 2019 . This loss of innocence is most marked in large parts of eastern Australia. Many children have ‘long and stressful’ days that involve witnessing strain on their parents and animals, UNICEF says. Their lost childhood is permanent and irreversible.
Lost Childhood Means No More Carefree Days on Farms
Kids have to work harder to put bread on the table. They have little time for homework, and none at all for sport and play. One young girl described her home life as ‘walking on eggshells’.
A high school student told UNICEF researchers, “Before the start of this year I’d never shot a lamb in my life. And I’ve done probably about fifty so far this year… it is just normal now.” Is this the new normal: is this where global warming leads? We find it remarkable how kids 5 to 16 years of age are standing by their parents; however, their lost childhood will leave deep furrows in their memories.
The Entire New South Wales is “In Drought”
New South Wales is an Australian state some 15% larger than Texas, with capital Sydney. The prevailing inland climate is semi-arid to arid, while the flat coastal plain ranges from oceanic to humid subtropical going north.
New South Wales normally produces a quarter of Australia’s agricultural output. “There isn’t a person in the state that isn’t hoping to see some rain for our farmers and regional communities.” So said New South Wales Minister for Primary Industries Niall Blair. Suicide rates in rural regions are 40% higher than in urban areas.
We accept the Prime Minister’s comment that drought is “part of the Australian climate.” However we are becoming concerned about what could happen if we don’t rein in the global warming.
Related
Australian Heat Wave Set to Linger Longer
Australian Heatwave Kills Wild Horses
Preview Image: Trapped in Drought
