I’ve just received an honorary doctorate at 18 – but that doesn’t matter

Scarlett Westbrook, at 18, received an honorary doctorate from the University of London for her work in climate justice, making her the youngest holder of the award globally. Despite her achievements, she emphasizes that individual accolades are insignificant compared to the need for structural change to address the climate crisis. Westbrook reflects on her journey, the support from her community, and the importance of collective action and radical hope in fighting for a better world.

Ecuador just made a profound decision on the climate that could change the way we view oil – forever

Ecuadorians voted to permanently ban oil drilling in the Amazon's Yasuní National Park, a decision resulting from over a decade of indigenous community campaigning. The Ishpingo-Tambococha-Tiputini oil project, responsible for 12% of Ecuador's oil production, will be dismantled, and the government will implement a remediation process to address environmental damage. Yasuní, a region of immense biodiversity and home to indigenous communities like the Tagaeri and Taromenane, will be protected from further oil extraction and climate crisis impacts.

Climate crisis: What young people need to hear from the next prime minister

The article criticizes the lack of climate action from UK leadership candidates Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak, highlighting their poor climate records and failure to prioritize environmental policies. It calls for urgent and meaningful climate action, suggesting various measures such as free public transport, incentivizing electric cars, and investing in local agriculture. The piece emphasizes the importance of climate action for the future of young voters and the sustainability of the planet.

Activism and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

The article explores the intersection of activism and theatre through the lens of the 10th Anniversary Tour of 'The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.' It highlights the play's impact on social change, representation, and accessibility, featuring insights from cast members Connor Curren, Siu-See Hung, and Sophie Stone. The diverse cast and the play's inclusion in the school curriculum are noted as significant factors in reaching a broader audience. The article also discusses the financial and structural barriers to theatre accessibility and calls for more inclusive practices to ensure theatre can drive meaningful social change.

Here's what 4 teenagers think about the UK's new climate change qualification

UK Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi will announce a new Natural History GCSE, to be introduced in 2025, focusing on conservation, fieldwork, and the impact of human activity on natural environments. The response from students is mixed, with some criticizing it for being too narrow and potentially elitist, while others see it as a welcome opportunity. Concerns include the course's accessibility, its limited scope, and the need for broader climate justice education. Some students, like Charlie Sweetman, are seeking climate education abroad due to limited options in the UK. The Department for Education has mentioned fieldwork as part of the course, but details are unclear. Students like Rue Millwood advocate for comprehensive climate crisis education across all curricula.

A ‘climate change GCSE’ is just another way for the Government to divert attention from its own failings

The article criticizes the UK government's introduction of a new Natural History GCSE, dubbed the 'Climate Change GCSE,' as a superficial attempt to address climate issues. It argues that the course will likely fail to cover the root causes of the climate crisis and the disproportionate impact on vulnerable demographics. The author suggests integrating climate education into all subjects and calls for urgent government action on decarbonization and climate policy. The piece highlights concerns about the accessibility and effectiveness of the new GCSE, given budget cuts and lack of teacher training.

‘The judges didn’t accept me’: Why is figure skating still so white?

Figure skating remains predominantly white, with significant barriers for skaters of color. Despite the sport's reputation for pushing physical limits, its demographics at the top level lack diversity. Black skaters like Rory Flack and Surya Bonaly have faced racism and exclusion, with institutional biases stifling their creativity and innovation. Access barriers, such as the high cost of training and lack of facilities in diverse communities, further limit participation. Organizations like Diversify Ice are working to provide opportunities and mentorship for skaters of color, but more systemic changes are needed to promote equality and inclusion in the sport.

Wellness culture and greenwashing

Young people like me have made history this Cop26 ‘youth day’ – now it’s your turn

The article discusses the fifth day of Cop26, which is dedicated to youth and public engagement, criticizing the event for its failure to include young people in negotiations and for not implementing adequate climate measures. It highlights the power of youth activism, with young people striking for global climate justice and taking action on the streets of Glasgow. The article also mentions the first-ever Education Minister’s Summit and the successful efforts of Teach the Future, a youth-led campaign, in influencing changes to the UK's education curriculum to include more climate education. The author emphasizes the importance of comprehensive climate education and the need for further reforms, such as mandatory climate education across all subjects and decarbonization of education buildings by 2030.

Young people like me have made history this Cop26 ‘youth day’ – now it’s your turn

On the fifth day of Cop26, dubbed 'youth day,' young activists criticize the exclusion of youth from negotiations and the inadequacy of current climate pledges. They emphasize the power of grassroots movements and street protests in driving change. Significant developments include the first-ever Education Minister’s Summit, co-organized by youth groups, which aims to expand climate education globally. Despite some progress, activists call for more comprehensive reforms in climate education and decarbonization efforts. The text highlights the role of young people in pushing for radical and systemic changes to address climate issues.