This letter was submitted by Parth Singla, a 10-year-old young changemaker from India.
—
Whenever I stand near the sea or a river, I feel like I am looking at another world. Beneath the waves is a hidden city – colourful fish dart between coral towers, dolphins leap joyfully into the air, and sea turtles glide gracefully as if they’ve been swimming forever. Even in small ponds and lakes, there is life – tiny insects dancing on the surface, frogs singing at night, and plants swaying gently in the current. Water is not just a home for these creatures; it is their whole world.
But I have also seen the sad side. I’ve spotted plastic bottles floating like unwanted visitors, fishing nets trapping animals, and oil stains covering the water like a dark blanket. Once, I saw a bird struggling to free itself from a piece of plastic – that image stayed in my mind. It made me realize how our careless actions on land travel silently into the water and hurt life we may never see.
Life in the water is delicate. One small change – too much pollution, rising temperatures, or overfishing – can break the balance that has existed for millions of years. Protecting oceans, rivers, and lakes is not just about saving animals. It’s about saving ourselves, because the water cycle connects every drop we drink and every breath we take to the health of our planet. If we care for the water, we care for the future. And I believe even kids like me can make a difference – by using less plastic, cleaning up beaches, and telling others why our waters matter.
—
About the author: Parth Singla is a 10-year-old young changemaker from India, passionate about environmental conservation, STEM innovation, and creative storytelling. He is the winner of the International Star Kid Award, a Story Monsters Ambassador, and a member of the YOUTHTOPIA Circle of Youth. His work blends climate action awareness with hands-on STEM projects, inspiring other young people to take small but meaningful steps for the planet. On his Instagram page, Parth regularly posts videos showcasing his environmental initiatives, STEM builds, and creative campaigns, bringing his message to life for audiences of all ages.
