Carmarthenshire's Climate Action Group has been recognised for its pioneering work in climate change education.

The Wales Net Zero Challenge Group acknowledged the group's efforts in its research documents, which outline a strategy for education, jobs, and community engagement to tackle the climate and nature emergency.

The Wales Net Zero 2035 Challenge Group was formed in January 2023 as part of a formal agreement between the Welsh Government and Plaid Cymru.

The group aims to explore ways to achieve net-zero emissions by 2035, highlighting the crucial role of education in this transformation.

The Climate Action Group was established in November 2021 as a result of the Walk the Global Walk Global Citizenship Education Programme.

It encourages young people across Carmarthenshire to become catalysts for change through their involvement in climate action and sustainability efforts.

Students from schools throughout Carmarthenshire elect representatives to the group, which meets quarterly to discuss climate change issues, implement recommendations from their Climate Action Manifesto, and connect with local authorities, businesses, and organisations.

The Climate Action Manifesto, a collaborative document revised and relaunched in June 2024, ensures that young people's voices are heard in decision-making processes related to climate action.

It empowers students to advocate for sustainable practices within their schools and communities, enhancing their involvement in local governance.

Students have praised the positive impact of the Climate Action Group.

One student said: "I love how inclusive the meetings are, we all have a shared vision and interest in protecting the planet and it feels that together we can make a difference."

Another student added: "We are a group of pupils coming together to discuss ideas on how we can not only help our communities but also the world."

The Wales Net Zero Challenge Group's recognition of the Climate Action Group underscores the importance of this model in fostering youth engagement in climate action.

The report recommends that all local authorities in Wales adopt a similar framework to empower young people and effectively address the climate and nature emergency.

The associate education support advisor for sustainability coordinates the Climate Action Group, providing essential updates on local issues, training resources, and professional learning opportunities for educators and students.

This dedicated support ensures that the group continues to thrive and make meaningful contributions to local and national sustainability goals.

Councillor Aled Vaughan Owen, cabinet member for climate change, decarbonisation, and sustainability, said: "As we confront the pressing challenges of climate change, it is crucial that we empower our communities, particularly our youth, to take an active role in sustainability efforts.

"By fostering education, promoting awareness, and encouraging collaboration among residents, businesses, and local authorities, we can drive meaningful change.

"Together, we have the power to create a more sustainable future, ensuring that we protect our planet for generations to come while also addressing the urgent needs of our communities today."