Wiltshire teens discuss hopes and fears at climate change event

Teenagers have expressed a mix of worry and optimism about the future of the environment at a conference about sustainability.

Sixth formers from two Wiltshire schools have explained how they feel while at an event for young people discussing sustainable solutions and the future.

Anna said it is a "very big worry" and "quite frustrating because it just feels like not enough action is being taken" while Jed said young people "have a responsibility as the new generation".

They were attending Sustain Britain Schools Conference 2026, started by Sustain Britain after it realised last year it did not have anybody under 35 attending their usual event.

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Jed, from Royal Wootton Bassett Academy, added that "in the future we are the people that uphold the environment and we may have picked up some bad habits from the people that we've got it from".

"If we started with this after World War Two it would make everyone's lives a lot easier but I think if we need to start getting serious about it, now is the best time.

"And I think we have a chance to make real difference."

Anna, from Malmesbury School, feels education is the most important part.

"I think motivating people and showing the impacts they can have so that they realise how it can affect people and they can try to help."

Fellow Malmesbury pupil Amelia said: "The bad in the news overpowers the good so a lot of people are losing hope in the future for the environment which causes a lot of people to not put in as much as they should to help it, which is why I'm a bit worried about it."

Izzy said she thinks people need to see the "harsh reality of it to have a change".

The conference introduced them to some possible solutions through speakers from lots of different projects - something Emma was pleased about because it made her feel more "confident" that things are going in the right direction.

Ariq feels there is optimism with "upcoming technology" and that "little changes to our lifestyle" can make a big difference.

Thomas said he sees a "a lot of hope still" due to technology and feels there is opportunity to improve how we get energy and "go about our daily lives".

Malmesbury School geography teacher Sarah Blackburn explained that she would be taking some of what was said in the conference back to her lessons, which already include climate change.

"I think it is a lot more shocking to them today than it is when we tell them because they're used to us telling them things, but when they hear it in a different context I think sometimes it sinks in a bit more," said Blackburn.

Nick Ash, from organisers Sustain Britain, wanted to make sure the organisation engaged young people.

"I think in the end, the Sustain project is going to outlast my career by some length.

"We've got to recruit some younger people and get them to carry it forward."

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