Young hopes in a changing world

Jun 4 2008 by Liz Hands, The Journal

HOW 250 youngsters in the North East view climate change and the impact it may have on their lives was revealed yesterday.

Pupils from 11 schools have contributed images of climate change and their thoughts on the issue to a book which was launched at Durham University’s Science Learning Centre in Pity Me.

The book, Climate Change Schools Project, was unveiled to mark World Environment Day tomorrow.

The youngsters, aged seven to 14, entered a competition to design a logo for the ground-breaking regional schools project. The aim is to put climate change at the heart of not only North East schools, but also the national curriculum

Climate change schools project officer Dr Krista McKinzey said: “The young contributors to this thought-provoking book have provided their views on why climate change is important to them. It is a true celebration of our outstanding young people.

She said: “They are concerned about the impact of climate change and what it means for their futures, and many of them suggest ways we can help tackle it and bring about positive change.”

The book includes a foreword by author, environmental campaigner and chancellor of Durham University Bill Bryson. He said: “It is with great pleasure for me, as a father, grandfather and bearded green crusader, to be invited to contribute to a book on climate change which has been driven by children.

“The art and the insightful and inspiring thoughts of the children which are showcased in this book show that the community here in the North East, with which I am proud to be associated, is well placed to deliver a powerful response to the climate change debate.”

The winning design was by Sally Gray, 13, from Dr Thomlinson CoE Middle School in Rothbury and provides the book cover.

Schools in the book project include: Belsay First School, Rothbury Middle School; and Whytrig Middle School, Seaton Delaval, all Northumberland; Dunston Hill Community Primary, Gateshead; Oxclose Community School, Washington; St. Hild’s Church of England School, Hartlepool; Thornhill School, Sunderland, and Dame Allan’s, Newcastle.

Also at the launch were the 2007 and 2008 Defra young climate change champions for the North East, David Saddington and Jack White.

To obtain a copy, email krista.mckinzey@durham.ac.uk