Young people’s climate leadership in Aotearoa

Abstract

ABSTRACTChildren and young people internationally have been demonstrating their concern about the inadequacy of adult responses to the climate crisis. These young people recognise that their wellbeing and that of the planet is imperilled by this inaction. Furthermore, schools should be taking the lead in educating and supporting children and young people with regard to climate science and climate action, as well as with their emotional wellbeing. This article reports the views of a range of young people in Aotearoa New Zealand, who were consulted to inform the writing of a climate wellbeing guide to accompany a climate learning programme for schools. Their views illustrate their frustration at the inadequacy of their education experiences currently, and provide hopeful critique that sheds light on future possibilities for climate education that fosters young people’s climate leadership as well collective and planetary wellbeing.