Hope in Action: Young People Unite for Climate and Nature

Redcar, 22 July 2025 – Young people from across the South Tees came together last week to take climate action into their own hands at the second Youth Climate Conference hosted by the All Our Futures project – a dynamic initiative empowering local communities to connect with nature and tackle climate change.

Held at Redcar and Cleveland College, the event brought together young people from nine youth organisations for a full day of inspiring, hands-on workshops, all designed to spark ideas, build confidence, and deepen understanding of the environmental challenges we face.

From LEGO wind turbines to climate debates, the conference offered a unique and engaging platform for young voices to be heard. Workshop highlights included:

• Climate Debates with North York Moors Youth Voice, where participants championed local natural treasures and reflected on their environmental value.

• Stone Painting with Open Door Art CIC, turning creative expression into a lasting mural for community green spaces.

• Living Music Workshop with The Tree Council, blending sound and sustainability through nature-inspired music.

• Ocean-Inspired Treasure Hunts led by a Blue Influencer, raising awareness of marine biodiversity and the importance of protecting blue spaces.

• Wind Turbine Building with SeAH Wind, exploring the power of renewables through interactive LEGO engineering.

• Designing the Healthiest Island in the World, a visionary activity with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council focused on holistic health in sustainable communities.

Andrew McDonald, Head of Training and Deputy Project Director at SeAH Wind said:

“We were honoured to be involved. I thoroughly enjoyed the workshops, the young people were polite, pleasant and thoroughly engaging, I actually learnt a few things!”

The day was bookended by powerful keynote speakers from the Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre and Another Way, who highlighted Teesside’s leading role in the UK’s green industrial future – and the essential part young people play in shaping it.

Alison Cross from the Ernest Cook Trust praised the event, saying:

“The conference was full of hands-on activities helping participants to understand how achievable taking action for climate and nature is, without putting the pressure on each individual young person to take on the burden. There were lots of networking opportunities too, and I enjoyed meeting all the external partners AOF work with and sign post young people to, from conservation to art to STEM careers.”

The impact was tangible. By the end of the day:

• 78% of attendees reported an increase in their understanding of climate change

• 60% said they’d feel more confident taking environmental action

• 73% expressed a desire to get more involved in climate action within their communities

Organisers were “blown away” by the participants' climate knowledge and passion for change.

“This event proved that young people in the Tees Valley care deeply about the environment and are ready to play a leading role in building a better future – both locally and globally,” said Rebecca Brett, coordinator of the All Our Futures Project.

The conference was supported by a number of local businesses and partners, including Tesco’s Community Champion, Elizabeth and Ernest, and the ever-supportive team at Redcar and Cleveland College. Special thanks also go to the European Social Fund and The National Lottery Community Fund, whose backing makes the All Our Futures project possible. If any local youth groups, based in Redcar and Cleveland, would be interested in finding out more about the All Our Futures project, please contact: rebecca.brett@thejunctionfoundation.com