SIXTH Form students from Camborne Science and International Academy (CSIA) were invited to 10 Downing Street recently to take part in a special youth press conference with the Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband.

The event, held ahead of the COP30 climate summit in Brazil, gave the students a unique opportunity to engage directly with government leaders on the future of climate policy.

The session brought together young people from across the country to discuss the role of the next generation in driving forward the clean energy revolution. Topics discussed included the economic opportunities of net zero, the importance of sustainability in education and how Britain can lead global climate action.

Several Camborne students were able to ask Mr Miliband questions on a range of topics including how to make commercial aviation more sustainable and what projects are most impactful at reducing emissions to reach the 2030 goal of reducing greenhouse gases by at least 68 per cent.

Hattie, who discussed with Ed Miliband the apathy of some young people towards climate change, said: “To see the government listen to my concerns about our climate and take on board comments from our generation has given me hope in the run up to COP30 that promises will be met and plans will be made to address the issues most pressing for the younger people in our society.

“I loved getting to talk directly with the people who can solve the problems my generation worry about, Ed Miliband really seemed to listen to what I had to say and I was moved by his sincerity. It was such a great experience and privilege to represent Camborne Science and International Academy at 10 Downing Street.”

Emma Haase, principal of CSIA, added: “It was incredibly powerful to see our students standing at the heart of government, speaking up for their future. Their passion, insight and confidence in discussing climate issues with national leaders shows just how ready they are to help shape the world they will inherit. This experience will stay with them for a lifetime.”

COP30 is the annual UN climate summit, bringing together countries committed to tackling dangerous climate change. This year’s event is especially significant as it marks the halfway point to 2030, when nations are expected to meet their climate pledges under the Paris Agreement.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer added:"When I met with global leaders at the COP30 summit to represent our nation's leadership for global climate change, in my mind's eye were the brilliant students I met beforehand in Downing Street.

“Future generations will be most impacted by the decisions we make on clean energy and climate change, and now more than ever, we must invest in them. They are the future.

“They are the next generation who will benefit from not just the jobs and opportunities in clean energy, but from the steps we take in protecting our planet. This government will not let them down.”