And thousands of those thousands only went to skip school and hang out with their peers.

Meaningless gesture, as are most of these protests. If they actually wanted to DO something, they would decrease their own carbon footprint; quit using their phones and computers, walk or ride a bike to school, give up burgers and chicken nuggets and while they're at it, insist the schools lower the thermostat during winter and raise it during the warmer months, use less energy expended solely for their comfort.

Plus, they should only take cold water showers at home; save energy there, too, plus it would probably have the added bonus of reducing teen pregnancy.