Northumberland school children debate climate change in mock UN summit event

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, saw nine schools debate pressing issues such as deforestation, flooding and sustainable energy, sparking enthusiasm and respect for both worldwide and local challenges.

This year’s event built on the success of last year’s, 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.

Pupils were welcomed by Cllr Glen Sanderson, Leader of the Council, who outlined what the Council is doing to improve the local environment and tackle climate change, and highlighted local opportunities for green jobs, particularly at the Energy Central and the Port of Blyth.

Cllr Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council, 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.”