50 young environment ambassadors

The #iwill4nature initiative, part of the #iwill campaign which aims to embed social action into the lives of 10-18 year olds, was formally launched at Kew Gardens.  Step Up to Serve, will coordinate the #iwill campaign.

Defra has worked closely with the campaign team to develop the 2019 focus on the environment, which was outlined in the government’s 25 Year Environment Plan.  Defra Minister Lord Gardiner congratulate the new ambassadors, saying:

“Our children and young people have a huge role to play in ensuring the next generation is motivated and equipped to protect the precious natural world.  It was inspiring to meet this group of young ambassadors who are so passionate about environmental protection and I look forward to seeing all they achieve over the coming year.”

Many of this year’s ambassadors have been selected because they are already involved in environmental projects.  The group, includes two teenage sisters, 15-year-old Amy Meek and her 13-year-old sister Ella, who founded Kids Against Plastic to cut the single-use packaging, and aims to encourage more young people to get involved in green projects through their school, youth group or local community.  Joining  them as an ambassador is 18-year-old Emily McDonald who founded a Bio-Eco Society at her school, bringing together peers to take positive action against climate change.  Bradley Gwin-Barrett has also been selected as an ambassador after he helped create a community garden in Anfield and went on to become a Community Engagement Officer.