A Day of Innovation and Inspiration at the Young Green Briton Challenge Southern Finals

As part of our week's work experience with the Greater London Authority's Environment Team at City Hall, Ben and I had the privilege of supporting and observing the Young Green Briton Challenge (YGBC) Regional Finals. What we expected to be a day of presentations quickly became an inspiring demonstration of how determined young people are to tackle one of the greatest challenges facing our generation: climate change.

The event brought together 17 schools from across southern England, each showcasing months of hard work, creativity and determination. Every team presented an innovative idea aimed at improving environmental sustainability, demonstrating not only an impressive understanding of climate science but also remarkable confidence, teamwork and communication skills.

Before the presentations began, Ben and I were able to play a small role in the day's organisation by helping prepare and package goody bags for the students, teachers and guests attending the event.

The Pitches

As the pitching sessions got underway, we were genuinely amazed by both the quality of the ideas and the passion shown by every student. It became immediately clear that climate education is inspiring a new generation of innovators who are not simply recognising environmental problems but actively seeking practical solutions.

The projects covered a wide range of environmental challenges such as, the environmental impact of the cosmetics industry, encouraging consumers to choose more sustainable products and reduce unnecessary waste. Others focused on clothing waste, particularly school uniforms, proposing schemes that would recycle and reuse garments to reduce landfill while making uniforms more affordable for families. Each presentation highlighted not only a clear understanding of their chosen topics but also entrepreneurial thinking, demonstrating how environmental challenges can become opportunities for innovation.

Students from The Norwood School, Forest Hill and Stoke Newington (Photo credits: Jonny Barratt, Swivel)

The Next Stage

One of the most fascinating parts of the day came after the presentations had finished. We were fortunate enough to observe the judging panel as they carefully discussed each project, scoring the ideas against a range of criteria including creativity, climate impact, likelihood of success and presentation skills. With so many exceptional entries, reaching a final decision was incredibly difficult.

Ultimately, three winning teams were awarded £500 in funding to continue developing their projects, while four runners-up also received support to help progress their ideas. Seeing these young innovators gaining recognition for their hard work reinforced how important it is to invest in the next generation of environmental leaders.

Special Guest Appearances

The atmosphere throughout the event was one of optimism, collaboration and genuine belief that positive change is possible. Adding to the significance of the occasion was the attendance of renowned naturalist and environmental campaigner Chris Packham, who congratulated the students and shared words of encouragement. He highlighted the importance of empowering young people to become active participants in protecting the natural world.

Before the winners were announced, the Deputy Mayor of London for Environment and Energy, Mete Coban, delivered an inspiring speech that resonated with everyone in the room. He spoke passionately about the importance of determination, resilience and striving to make a difference within your local community.

His message was captured in one memorable phrase that gave the pupils a strong insight into his core beliefs.

"Be unapologetically ambitious."

Deputy Mayor Mete Coban speaking to students and guests (Photo credit: Jonny Barratt, Swivel)

Key Takeaways

Reflecting on the experience, the event gave us a greater appreciation of the environmental challenges society faces. Initially, neither of us were very knowledgeable on the climate topic area but throughout the day we gained an insight into the harsh reality of the climate crisis and the mitigation methods used by local authorities to prevent future exacerbation.

Discussions throughout the day highlighted the consequences of plastic pollution, excessive waste, littering and our continued reliance on non-renewable energy sources such as oil and gas. However, the event demonstrated that solutions already exist—and that many of them are being imagined by young people who are determined to create a greener future.

Our day at City Hall was both inspiring and educational. We arrived expecting to observe a climate competition but left having witnessed something much more significant: a room full of young people proving that age is no barrier to making a meaningful difference. Their creativity, passion and determination offered genuine hope for a greener and healthier future.

Written by Eddie Waxman and Ben Fawcett