How Young People Are Influencing Climate Action in Grangemouth and Falkirk

The start of 2026 has marked a successful period of climate engagement at Grangemouth High School and Falkirk High School, where the FEL Climate Action Hub and Active Travel Hub came together to deliver a climate change consultation with pupils from both schools.

The Scottish Government is seeking feedback on its wider Climate Change Plan from communities across Scotland. Creating space for young people to share their views is vital, as they are not only directly affected by climate decisions made today but can also help shape a fairer and more sustainable future through their contributions to the consultation.

Throughout the week, the FEL team hosted a series of climate consultation pop-ups in the schools’ lunch halls and libraries. These informal drop in sessions encouraged pupils to engage with real world climate topics affecting Falkirk and wider Scotland, including energy and community wellbeing. Interactive questions and creative zine-making activities sparked conversations and allowed pupils to express their ideas in accessible and engaging ways.

Alongside the pop-ups, FEL worked with classes to explore climate themes in more depth. Pupils shared their thoughts on transport, waste, and just transition, reflecting on what positive climate action could look like in their communities. These discussions were brought to life through live illustration, with a skilled designer capturing pupils’ ideas in real time. This creative approach not only helped visualise complex topics but also showed pupils that their contributions were valued. The illustrated artwork will soon be on display within both schools, serving as a lasting reminder of pupils’ voices and ideas.

By linking the FEL Climate Action Hub with the Active Travel Hub, this consultation highlighted how climate action connects to everyday choices, from how we travel to how we care for our local environment. Most importantly, it demonstrated the power of listening to young people and ensuring their perspectives help shape the climate future of Falkirk, Grangemouth, and Scotland.