Pupils lead the way at third annual Sustainability and Outdoor Learning Conference in Carmarthenshire

Pupils from across Carmarthenshire took centre stage on Friday, 19 September, as they welcomed over 60 educators to the third annual Sustainability and Outdoor Learning Conference for Schools, held at Neuadd y Gwendraeth.

The event was hosted by the Carmarthenshire Climate Action Group, a youth-led initiative empowering young people to lead on sustainability. It brought together educators from across the county including teachers, headteachers, support staff and lecturers for a day of inspiration and collaboration.

Throughout the day, attendees explored a wide range of topics including food literacy and sustainable menu planning, developing productive growing spaces in schools, air quality monitoring, and embedding energy efficiency into the curriculum. The conference served as a platform for sharing best practices and success stories from schools and learning centres across the county, with pupils actively involved in discussions and presentations.

This year’s conference continued to build on the momentum of previous events, strengthening networks between schools and organisations committed to addressing climate and biodiversity challenges. The event emphasised the importance of community-led action and empowered both pupils and educators to drive meaningful change in their schools and communities.

Formed in November 2021, the Carmarthenshire Climate Action Group evolved from the Walk the Global Walk Global Citizenship Education Programme and now represents a powerful youth-led movement for sustainability. The group meets quarterly to implement the goals of their Climate Action Manifesto and collaborates with local authorities, businesses, and other key stakeholders to promote sustainable practices countywide.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Decarbonisation and Sustainability, Aled Vaughan Owen said:

This conference is a shining example of how our young people are stepping up as leaders and changemakers. Through the Climate Action Sir Gâr initiative, we are supporting schools and communities across Carmarthenshire to take bold steps in tackling climate change and protecting our natural environment for future generations.”

The Sustainability and Outdoor Learning Conference is part of the wider Climate Action Sir Gâr initiative, which aims to engage everyone in creating a more sustainable Carmarthenshire.