ECO-MINDED pupils from Solihull’s Secondary schools discussed the impact of climate change in a model COP27.
Solihull Council teamed up with InterClimate for its annual Solihull Schools Climate Conference gave youngsters the chance to get to the heart of the topics raised at the international conference.
After being welcomed by the Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Ken Meeson, students split off into teams, each representing a country from the United Nations.
The pupils from the ten schools then put forward their country’s views on climate change and proposed resolutions for effective climate action.
The Mayor said: “Climate change is an issue we have debated greatly in recent years, and we have ambitious plans to continue reducing emissions, planting trees, enhancing biodiversity, and lowering our carbon footprint in Solihull.
“Climate change is widely acknowledged as the greatest challenge faced by humanity, but none more so than for younger generations, who will have to live with its damaging effects.
“Youth are the key to the future of our planet, so it is vital we encourage them to participate in debates on climate change and give them a taste of the decision-making process.”
During the conference, some schools were presented with awards, including the Modeshift Travel Plan accreditation and Love Solihull award, in recognition of their commitment to environmental sustainability.
The pupils then quizzed the Leader of Solihull Council, Councillor Ian Courts, on environmental issues.
He said: “Students leave these events feeling inspired to carry out meaningful climate action and with a broader understanding of the complexities of the climate emergency.
“Undertaking the role of different nations in the conference, the students appreciate that different countries have unique contexts and issues to overcome, and that an empathetic consideration of these is needed if the world is to move forwards with climate action together.
“I was so proud of our students and wish world leaders could have been present in the Council Chamber, to listen to their great ideas and to learn from their admirable passion for preserving our planet.”
