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YOUNG people across the UK are being given an opportunity to win funding to help tackle climate change as part of a Woodland Trust initiative.
The Youth Innovation Competition offers people the chance to secure part of a £20,000 prize to support their own environmental projects.
The competition comes against the backdrop of a Met Office announcement that 2022 was the warmest year in the UK on record.
Nine individuals or small groups – aged 16 to 25 – will win up to £5,000 project funding each, along with mentorship from industry experts to deliver projects which directly fight the climate crises.
Dr Darren Moorcroft, Woodland Trust chief executive, said: “As the UK’s largest woodland conservation charity, who has been planting and protecting trees and woods for more than 50 years, we are perfectly placed to provide this opportunity.
“The next generation will inherit the impacts of climate change, so it is crucial they are given the chance to bring their energy and innovation to the fight in tackling it now.”
The projects will need to fit into three categories: inspire, protect and create.
This could include anything from tree planting projects and championing ancient trees to innovative ideas that aid farming and the protection of UK rivers and wildlife.
The top 18 applications will be invited to take part in workshops that will teach them how to professionally pitch their project idea and the finalist will go on to present their environmental innovations to a panel of celebrity judges and experts.
Grace Howourth, head of youth re-imagined at the Woodland Trust, said: “You don’t have to be from an experienced environmental or conservation background or have academic qualifications to enter, as we are looking for people from all backgrounds and walks of life to enter with a great idea that can impact woods, wildlife and people.”
Applications are now open and will close at 4pm on Tuesday, February 7.
For more information on how to apply, visit woodlandtrust.org.uk or email youth@woodlandtrust.org.uk.
