How did you get involved with the RSPB Youth Council?
I became involved with the RSPB’s Youth Council because of a passion for wildlife and fighting the climate crisis. I wanted to find my place with a great charity and to find opportunities to make a difference.
I was already working in the climate space then I found the Youth Council through the RSPB’s website and social media. As a member of the RSPB Youth Council, we are involved in lots of different things such as being youth representation in the space, campaigning and advocacy for nature, and working alongside the wider RSPB on their development.
Meet the RSPB Youth Council – a group of young people aged 16-24 with a strong passion for nature. @RSPBvideo (YouTube)
Were you involved in the Restore Nature Now march?
Yes! The Restore Nature Now march, held in London in June, urged government and policymakers to take action to combat biodiversity loss and restore natural habitats.
The protest was organised to draw attention to the urgent need for nature restoration projects and stronger environmental protection laws, in line with global commitments to biodiversity and climate action.
Attending the march with the RSPB was a great experience. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of purpose and solidarity as thousands of people, including activists, conservationists and everyday people who just care about the planet, came together for a common cause.
The march featured speeches from prominent environmentalists and the display of banners and placards highlighting various environmental issues added to the atmosphere. It was empowering to see so many people actively participating and voicing their concerns about the future of our planet. Climate Action needs all of us from parliament to our local community getting involved and being heard.
Why is it important to get young people involved in environmental campaigns?
Young people play a crucial role in environmental campaigning. Without us, I don’t see a future for the climate movement.
As young people, we bring new and innovative ideas to the table, challenging the status quo and pushing for creative solutions to environmental problems. We’ve always known climate anxiety and want to build a better world for the children that come after us across the globe. As the generation that will inherit the planet, we have an interest in ensuring a healthy and sustainable environment.
We care because we are the ones who have to live with the consequences of the actions of the generation before us. Youth movements have shown incredible power in mobilising large groups of people and drawing media attention. We learn from each other and the movements before and now have a track record for winning when we put pressure on policymakers to act.
By getting involved in campaigning, young people can help shape a better future, advocate for necessary policy changes, and inspiring others to take action is what our planet needs to ensure its own safety.
Get involved!
Do you know a young person who would like to become a member of our Youth Council? Get in contact by emailing youthcouncil@rspb.org.uk
Remember, RSPB members aged 13-18 receive Wingbeat, a magazine for and written by teens like them.
Youths can also join a local group or campaign – find a local group near you at the link below.
Youth undertaking some practical conservation work clearing scrub. Photo: Ben Andrew (rspb-images.com)
