COP26 - Day 5: Young people demand more action

Young climate leaders came together in Glasgow today with negotiators, officials and ministers from across the world, making their voices heard and demanding the action needed to prevent catastrophic climate change in our lifetimes.

Events across COP26 focused on harnessing the expertise of young people and putting their views directly to the negotiators and officials working to agree global action on climate change. The day was co-chaired by YOUNGO, the Official Children's and Youth constituency of the UNFCCC which opened with a session called Unifying for Change: Global Youth voice at COP26.

Today the UK also announced its draft Sustainability and Climate Change strategy to equip and empower young people with the skills they need to drive the future of climate action. This includes the introduction of a Primary Science Model Curriculum, to include an emphasis on nature and the recognition of species, supporting the youngest pupils to develop conservation skills. Over 23 countries put forward impressive national climate education pledges, ranging from decarbonising the school sector to developing school resources.

Councillor Patrick Solomon, who sits on Children's Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee, said "Today's events signify how young climate leaders are an unstoppable force, and show how we must involve them in discussions on climate change. Their ideas and enthusiasm will drive forward change to enable us to keep temperature rises to no more than 1.5C."

As representatives for Kingsbrook, Councillor Patrick Solomon and Councillor Dean Crofts have reduced flytipping and litter by installing CCTV and extra bins in rubbish hotspots, improving the environment across the ward.