Young Leaders Revolutionize Climate Action with $150K Funding for Innovative Solutions

Students at Alesco Senior College are taking a bold step toward a greener future. They’re leading a significant ecosystem restoration project, one of 18 youth initiatives funded by the City of Newcastle. This project will see 750 native trees planted on their campus in Elemore Vale, transforming neglected bushland into a vibrant learning space.

The funding comes thanks to a generous contribution from Bloomberg Philanthropies through the City of Newcastle’s Youth Climate Action Grants. With a total of $150,000 dedicated to these projects, young people’s creativity and commitment to the environment shine through.

Marnie Kikken, Executive Manager for Environment and Sustainability at City of Newcastle, expressed her excitement about the initiative. She sees it as a reflection of the energy and innovation in the community. “These projects do more than promote environmental health; they support education and empower youth,” she stated.

City of Newcastle’s Deputy Chairperson, Cr Elizabeth Adamczyk, emphasized the importance of supporting local youth. She believes that providing the right tools empowers them to make lasting environmental changes.

The Living Classroom project, facilitated by ReGen Alliance, puts this vision into practice. Students at Alesco are involved in every step—from setting up the site to planting the trees and monitoring their growth. Rebecca Giddins, co-founder of ReGen Alliance, stated that this program not only connects students with nature but also helps them develop confidence and a sense of purpose.

What’s more, City of Newcastle is one of just three Australian local governments selected for Bloomberg Philanthropies’ global initiative, distributing a total of $225,000 across various local projects.

Beyond Alesco, other youth-led projects include a smart recycling initiative called Bingage, created by University of Newcastle students. This project gamifies recycling efforts on campus, offering rewards for positive behaviors like rinsing bottles and returning branded waste.

In addition to these initiatives, schools like Lambton High are creating habitats for wildlife, and Newcastle High is running ecological tours to teach the community about biodiversity.

These funded projects align with the City of Newcastle’s Climate Action Plan, which promotes clean technology, circular economies, and the development of zero-emission industries. By supporting youth in their climate action efforts, the City is not only paving the way for a more sustainable future but also fostering a sense of community involvement among young people.

Recent surveys show that over 70% of young Australians are concerned about climate change, highlighting the urgency of these projects and the importance of engaging youth in environmental action. Empowering young people to lead these initiatives creates a strong foundation for a healthier planet, ensuring that their voices lead the charge toward sustainability.

For more information on climate action goals, visit the Newcastle City Council.

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