Katie and Kirsty, members of our Climate Change Youth Project, share some of their experiences of standing up for nature as a young person.
#OneYearToCOP26: A youth-led approach
The UNFCCC COP26 is a fortnight long global gathering of world leaders to negotiate the terms of climate policy. COP26 is viewed as a key meeting as the focus will be on the Paris Agreement, an agreement reached in 2015 to combat climate change and work towards a low carbon future.
As part of RSPB Scotland’s mission to connect people with nature and improve biodiversity, the COP26 Climate Change Youth Project was launched in March 2020. The aim of this project is to connect young people with the climate change crisis so that they feel informed and empowered on the subject, and then to connect them to COP26 in Glasgow.
The project is co-designed with a dedicated youth steering group of 13 to 25-year olds with the aim of engaging other likeminded young people. Although unable to meet in person due to COVID-19 restrictions, the group have been meeting online bi-monthly to design an events programme from November 2020 – November 2021.
Project Officer, Kate Kirkwood asked two members, Katie and Kirsty, about their experiences of being a young person standing up for nature and why young people should be part of the discussions and decision-making process.
What experience have you had in making decisions at school, or in your community, before volunteering with the RSPB?
Katie: Within the school environment, [I have found] there is a certain stigma around campaigning for environmental issues, especially in teenagers. People may think it’s weird or that you have to be a certain stereotype to campaign for nature or become involved. That can be why it’s hard to show people that engaging in nature or campaigning for the climate isn’t a ‘trend’ but actually something that can benefit their mental health, or an issue that needs to be solved. Influencing students and teachers to change even small individual actions can have the biggest impact, such as using reusable water bottles instead of plastic cups.
Why do YOU think it is important for young people to be part of the discussions and decisions about climate change and how to conserve nature?
Kirsty: The climate change conversation is more important than ever, and it’s so vital that as young people, we feel heard and understood. We are the future, and therefore the future of this planet must be discussed seriously and with facts and science. Young people being a part of the conversation not only validates us as being the ones who are going to live through today’s decisions, but it gives us the power to influence the world we want to live in, and the state of our biodiversity, weather, and agriculture.
Katie: Young people are the generation that will be the most affected by events happening at present. We are the most idealistic and innovative generation, influenced by global trends which can have the most impact-from one schoolgirl striking for her future to 6 million students protesting in the streets. The power of young people connected through digital platforms has accelerated this influence with social media being an important tool in empowering young people. […] With higher levels of ecological anxiety, it is important to give the younger generations hope for the future- after all the natural world can have positive mental health benefits as well. It is important that we have the chance to decide the fate of the planet and the fate of the future when the generation it will most affect is us and others to come.
What are the best ways that adults can listen to young people's concerns about climate change and nature conservation? How can they help share your message?
[I think] For adults, the anxiety towards climate change is quite different to what us young people feel. It’s important for them to realise how this is going to affect the next generation, and the generation after that. Fight this battle with us wherever you can, whether that be educating yourself, or taking practical steps to reduce your carbon footprint – anything you can do now will be a future benefit to your children. As young people, we just want you to listen to us, believe the scientists, and work with us.
In your opinion, what is the most important lesson you have learned that has helped you to get your voice heard and to feel listened to?
Kirsty: Seeking out opportunity is the best way to know your voice matters! I have always been passionate about saving and preserving our planet, but I only knew when I joined the RSPB as a volunteer that I was actively doing something and having a space to make a change and have my opinions heard and valued. If I can give you any advice, it's get involved as much as you feel comfortable with! Find clubs, people, charities etc. that make you, as a young person, feel like you matter in this discussion, because you do.
‘#OneYearToCOP: An Introduction to Climate Issues and Glasgow’s COP26 for young people’ brought together a panel of young speakers from who work and specialise in the areas of climate change and biodiversity science, real examples of the work being done in the field to reduce their impacts, how young people can take actions in their own way and work together to raise their voices. Broadcast on 13 November 2020, a recording is now available to watch again: https://youtu.be/RJsRJ76-Aig
If you are a young person, who would like to know about how to get involved with the project, please contact Project Officer, Kate Kirkwood – kate.kirkwood@rspb.org.uk for further details.
The RSPB COP26 Climate Change Youth Project has been made possible with thanks to funding from ScottishPower.