A new funding boost will see a scheme – which gives young Scots the opportunity to meet world leaders and climate activists – expanded ahead of the crucial Cop26 conference in Glasgow next month.
A £35,000 grant from the Scottish Government will increase the reach of ReNew the World, which arranges events to connect youngsters to influential environmental campaigners.
The funding will also support the Climate Changemakers programme from the Children’s Parliament, which will provide opportunities for children aged up to 14 to share ideas for tackling the climate crisis.
In July, the Scottish Government announced £450,000 to support Cop26’s Youth Climate programme and a further £300,000 in September to fund the Conference of Youth.
Clare Haughey, minister for children and young people, said: “Children and young people in Scotland are driving forward the cause for climate action and it is vital we listen to their views and harness their passion as part of Cop26 and its legacy.
“We have now invested £950,000 to involve our children and young people in Cop26 and the ongoing climate conversation. This will ensure they not only have a strong voice during the event, but also have a say in what should happen after.”
Ewan Hunter, director of ReNew the World, said: “Cop26 provides the opportunity for the world to look at the challenges we face on climate in a rational, but optimistic, positive, way. One based upon renewal, innovation and opportunity.
“By creating the opportunities for engagement, we can give these young people the chance to write a very different story for their generation’s future and their vision of our collective journey to net zero.”
Maya, aged 11, a member of the Children’s Parliament, said: “We want to see more awareness of the climate emergency and changes in our community. We think everyone should be involved to make changes for our planet. We need to talk about our ideas with adults that can make change.”
Last month the Scottish Government announced £160,000 of funding for Local Authority Climate Champions. The programme is being delivered in partnership with Young Scot, YouthLink Scotland and Keep Scotland Beautiful.
The Children’s Parliament will receive £15,000 to support their ‘climate changemakers’ programme.
ReNew the World will receive £15,000 to host and film events for young people and high-profile influential political and business leaders.
