Secondary school students from across South Warwickshire will come together for a unique climate conference at Stratford-upon-Avon Town Hall in November, designed to give young people the opportunity to explore global climate challenges, engage with local decision-makers and help shape a more sustainable future.

The event has been jointly organised and delivered by Stratford-on-Avon District Council and Warwick District Council, as part of the South Warwickshire Local Climate Engagement Programme, in partnership with Inter Climate Network and Let's Go Zero.

The first part of the conference will see students step into the role of international delegates as world leaders gather for COP31 in Antalya, Türkiye. Representing up to 16 different countries, participants will take part in a mock United Nations climate negotiation, debating and collaborating to agree more ambitious action to reduce carbon emissions by 2030.

The immersive exercise will give students a first-hand understanding of the challenges and opportunities involved in international climate diplomacy, while building skills in negotiation, critical thinking and teamwork.

In the second part of the event, students will have the opportunity to connect directly with local organisations, community groups and decision-makers through a dedicated climate market stall session, followed by an open Q&A with an expert panel.

These sessions will enable young people to learn more about sustainability initiatives taking place across South Warwickshire, explore green skills and career opportunities, and have their voices heard on issues that matter to them.

Councillor Susan Juned, Leader at Stratford-on-Avon District Council, said: "Young people have a vital role to play in tackling climate change, and it will affect their future. This conference is a fantastic opportunity for students from across South Warwickshire to develop their knowledge, share their ideas and engage directly with those helping to shape local environmental action. We are delighted to be working in partnership with Warwick District Council, Inter Climate Network and Let's Go Zero to deliver this inspiring event."

Councillor Hema Yellapragada, Portfolio Holder for Decarbonisation at Warwick District Council, added: "Alongside my role as Portfolio Holder for Decarbonisation, I serve as a community school governor and independently run UK Parliament Week activities for children. Encouraging young people to ask questions, explore ideas and understand how their voices can influence decisions is important to me.

"This conference offers students an opportunity to bring that same curiosity to climate action, explore the challenges and share their ideas directly with local decision makers. As we work towards a low-cost, low-carbon South Warwickshire, it's vital that we listen to young people whose future we are working for. I look forward to what promises to be an engaging and insightful day."

The conference forms part of the wider South Warwickshire Local Climate Engagement Programme, which is helping communities, organisations and residents across the area become more informed, involved and empowered in addressing climate change.