To mark the UN Climate Change Conference COP27, Waverley Borough Council, once again, hosted climate action workshops for pupils from local schools on Tuesday 15 November.
The sessions, which took place at The Burys in Godalming, were run by WhatNext?, a local organisation whose aim is to raise awareness of the climate and ecological emergency and to encourage residents to live more sustainably, consume responsibly and reduce their carbon footprint.
Twenty-six pupils from Broadwater and Rodborough schools gathered to take part in a Climate Action Simulation Activity game which explored what actions can be taken to limit global warming to below 2C and as close to 1.5C as possible.
Councillor Steve Williams, Waverley Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sustainability, said:
“Following our successful workshops last year for local pupils and students, what better time to invite pupils in to learn about the impact of climate change then when world leaders are, once again, gathered to discuss our climate emergency.
“Once again, I was encouraged to see young people who have a genuine interest in learning more about climate change and it was clear to see that they were aware of the importance of acting now to stem the effects of the climate crisis. Waverley Borough Council has made a commitment to carbon-neutrality by 2030 and we hope that all residents, younger and older, will continue to support us in our efforts to achieve this.”
Dr David Faraday, Chair of Trustees, What Next? added:
“This is a great opportunity for What Next? to work with young people whose whole lives will be affected by the impacts of climate change. Our workshops give students a chance to experience the complexity of climate action negotiations and agree a possible strategy for limiting local warming to the Paris Agreement target of less than 2 DegC and as close to 1.5 DegC as possible. Whilst discovering that there are many possible scenarios for delivering success, it is also clear that action needs to be taken in a wide range of policy areas by individuals, businesses, industry and governments. If we have the ambition, and we can act quickly and decisively, a sustainable future is possible."
For further information on WhatNext? and their programmes, workshops and events, which are free to residents, visit the What Next? website.
You can find out further information on Waverley Borough Council’s by visiting Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan.