Youth stand up for environment

A NEW group has been launched empowering Surf Coast Shire youth to take action against climate change.

Formed as part of council’s Our Living Futures project, Surf Coast Youth 4 Climate (SCY4C) involves Jan Juc, Torquay and Aireys Inlet residents aged 11-20.

Group member Alannah Fitzgerald, 14, said they were focused on practical ways to improve the health of the environment.

“The big thing we want to do is take action, we (the youth) are trying to act now because we’re the ones who will have to experience the effects of climate change,” Alannah said.

“We’re taking action for generations to come. It’s about getting out there and actually doing things: tree planting, collecting rubbish – it’s about doing more and talking less.”

SCY4C also helps members connect with climate change leaders and partake in workshops and team-building activities, all of which have been done through Zoom.

So far, the group has done workshops on filming, photography and editing; public speaking, leadership and event planning, as well as workshops on cyber safety with Victoria Police, and digital storytelling with Humankind Enterprises and the 2040 Project.

Cr Martin Duke said he was pleased to see the group thriving despite the pandemic.

“It’s great to see young people staying connected during this time and pursuing their climate action goals online.”

SCY4C will be holding an online seminar on Sunday, September 20 about simple, cost-effective household changes people can take to help the environment.