Saint Catherine’s College Students Lead COP30 Schools Event

The COP30 climate simulation negotiation brought pupils from 28 schools to Belfast Castle, where they represented countries, campaigners, lobbyists and journalists.

The pupils negotiated with each other to make international deals, and made speeches - one of which was even interrupted by a mock climate protest. Two of our Year 13 Geography students, Blaithin and Niamh were selected to lead the event, which was organised by the British Council, as UN secretary generals.

They were tasked with bringing all the participants to an agreement on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, supporting developing nations and adapting to the effects of climate change.

Blaithin said despite COP30 taking place thousands of miles away, it was important to her generation. "As a young person, knowing that we will face the impact of what's going to happen in the future, it's very relevant that we understand what is going on," she said. "We have to live the life that's going to be controlled by what happens today."

Niamh thinks more could be done to educate young people about climate change.

"Social media is a big part of young people's lives, so I feel if we took more to social media for climate action, it would really influence young people today," she said.

Blaithin and Niamh want more young people to learn about climate action. Well done to these two inspiring ambassadors for our school, showcasing the power of the voices of our young people in raising awareness about climate change.