The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on March 21 launched its Weather Kids campaign globally, which sees child weather anchors emulate current weather reports but report on disruptive weather patterns in the year 2050.
The campaign serves as a warning from future generations about the adverse impact of changing weather patterns across the globe, the organisation said.
"Climate change will hinder growth of South African economy. This campaign is a reminder that climate change, and the devastating impact it will have on South African ecosystems, cannot be forgotten."
It is projected that at, in 2050, temperatures in South Africa will increase by 2.1%. This could lead to population displacements, severe weather patterns and food shortages. These shifts are a significant risk for South Africa, which is already battling high unemployment and a lagging economy, the UN agency said.
"The UNDP Weather Kids campaign comes with an urgent call to action from the future, urging populations to sign a pledge to change economic behaviour and deepen their knowledge on climate issues.
"By signing the pledge, individuals support actions against climate change, such as investing in renewable energy and promoting eco-friendly practices, thereby emphasising the importance of collective efforts in creating a sustainable future," it said.