Wandsworth Students Lead the Way at Mock COP29 Climate Summit

Held at the Royal College of Art in Battersea, this event simulated the high-stakes negotiations of the United Nations Climate Change Conference. Teams of secondary school students represented a diverse range of nations, from the Marshall Islands to India and the United States, tackling the urgent need for increased climate action and funding. 

Cabinet Lead for Environment, Judi Gasser, who opened the event, said, "It was great to see young people stepping into the shoes of global leaders to tackle one of the most urgent challenges of our time. Mock COP29 was an opportunity for students to develop their understanding of climate issues and also a reminder to all of us about the importance of bold action. 

“Here in Wandsworth, we’re committed to empowering our young people and working together to create a cleaner, greener borough for everyone. Our ambition to become a carbon-neutral council by 2030 and a net-zero borough by 2043 is at the heart of everything we do." 

During the event, students engaged in dynamic debates on national carbon reduction targets, working together to forge ambitious global resolutions. Drawing on expert resources and detailed briefings, they presented their respective countries’ climate challenges, collaborated on innovative solutions, and participated in realistic UN-style discussions. 

One student at the event said, “I had a really good time and would recommend it to my friends. The open debate allows you to gain new skills and improve on your argument. You can develop skills for debating on both sides, for and against.” 

Another shared, “The research I did to prepare for the debate was really interesting. I learnt so much about different countries, how they contribute to climate change, and what we can do to improve.” 

A diverse panel then joined the event to engage with students, answer their questions, and share insights into climate strategies at both local and global levels. The panel featured Andrew Hagger, Head of Climate Change and Sustainability at Richmond and Wandsworth Council; Jason Andrews, Team Manager for Pollution – Air Quality and Contaminated Land at Merton Council; Councillor Gasser, Cabinet Lead for Environment at Wandsworth Council; and Michaela Neto, Senior Manager for Climate & Nature at Burberry. 

Michila Critchley, Programme Director at ICN, emphasised the importance of youth participation: 

“This summit allows secondary school students from across the area to become immersed in these critical global negotiations as at the UN and importantly, means they can put our own decision-makers on the spot. What’s key is that everyone leaves at the end of the day inspired and informed about climate action in school and our community. 

ICN greatly appreciates the support of Wandsworth Council and their teams for this event.” 

The event not only highlights the urgent need to address climate change but also encourages young people to explore green careers and envision their role in building a sustainable future. Wandsworth Council is thrilled to back initiatives like Mock COP29, which inspire and equip the next generation to lead the charge for a more sustainable planet.