While global leaders prepare for COP30 in Brazil, over 80 students convened closer to home to conduct their own climate negotiations.
The COP30 climate simulation brought together students from 28 schools at Belfast Castle, where they assumed the roles of countries, campaigners, lobbyists, and journalists.
This year marked the first time the event included young people from both sides of the border, with four students from Dundalk Grammar School participating.
The students engaged in negotiations to forge international agreements and delivered speeches, one of which was punctuated by a staged climate protest.
Blaithin, 17, and Niamh, 16, from St Catherine’s College Armagh, served as UN secretary generals, spearheading the event organized by the British Council.
Their responsibility was to guide participants toward a consensus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, supporting developing nations, and adapting to the effects of climate change.
Blaithin emphasized that despite the geographical distance of COP30, its implications are highly relevant to her generation.
“As young people who will face the future impacts, it’s vital that we understand the ongoing developments,” she stated.
“Our lives will be shaped by the decisions made today.”
Niamh suggested that more efforts are needed to educate young people about climate change.
“Given the prominence of social media in young people’s lives, leveraging these platforms for climate action could significantly influence youth engagement,” she noted.
Jude, 17, from Shimna Integrated College in Newcastle, described the discussions with peers from across Northern Ireland as a “great experience,” while stressing the need for greater involvement from the business sector.
“Businesses are causing the most damage, and they need to recognize that they risk losing their customer base if they continue to harm the planet.”
He expressed concern that the gradual nature of climate change’s effects might delay widespread action until “floods reach doorsteps and droughts deplete water supplies.”
Lily-May, 18, also from Shimna Integrated College, found the gathering of climate-conscious young people “enlightening,” but observed that most of her peers are “not really engaged.”
“I think people are unwilling to take the extra step to be more environmentally friendly, even something as simple as using a different bin.”
Colm McGivern, Director of the British Council Northern Ireland, remarked: “It’s fantastic to provide young people with an opportunity to address a major global challenge.
“Their grasp of the arguments and engagement with the details is impressive and crucial for persuading others about the importance of climate action.”
Environment Minister Andrew Muir, who addressed the event, said he was “inspired and uplifted” by the young people’s commitment to climate action.
“Today’s event stands in stark contrast to some of the recent political discourse in Northern Ireland.
“There is collective will, hope, and positivity here, and I am committed to collaborating with young people on this vital issue.”
Kayla, from Coleraine Grammar, representing the USA, stated that the minister’s presence “demonstrates his commitment.”
“Climate change is a significant concern for all young people, but I don’t think we are doing enough,” she said.
“This event highlights the impact of daily actions, the insufficient efforts of many countries, and the potential for greater action.
“In Northern Ireland, while consensus may be lacking, parties need to collaborate with each other and Westminster to clarify responsibilities across the UK.”
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A signed summary of BBC Newsline.