Pupils debate climate change at mock UN summit in Northumberland
Fifty middle and secondary school pupils from across Northumberland came together to discuss climate change issues in a mini COP30 UN summit.
The event, hosted by Northumberland County Council in the Council Chamber at County Hall in Morpeth, saw nine schools debate pressing issues such as deforestation, flooding and sustainable energy – sparking enthusiasm and respect for both worldwide and local challenges.
Following the success of last year’s event, this year has been bigger and better with local and worldwide climate change issues being discussed in a peer-to-peer learning environment.
Each school was given its own country to represent and the students were tasked with preparing speeches and analysing climate attitudes specific to their assigned countries.
The pupils were welcomed by Coun Glen Sanderson, leader of the council, who outlined what the local authority is doing improve the local environment and tackle climate change, and he highlighted local opportunities for green jobs – particularly at the Energy Central and the Port of Blyth.
Coun Sanderson said: “I’m really pleased to see nearly twice as many schools attend this year's mini-COP event compared to last year.
“This demonstrates just how increasingly important climate change issues are to our young people and it is fantastic that we are able to give them a platform to discuss this while expanding their knowledge and skills, which will enrich their future.”