An engineering student who will take part in a conference this month hopes the event will inspire young people to take action to address climate change.

Alex Pilgrim, a former pupil of Warwick Academy now studying for an MSc in Renewable Energy Engineering at the University of Exeter, will be among the presenters at the Annual Youth Climate Summit.

The conference will be held at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute.

Mr Pilgrim said: “When the opportunity arose to speak, I saw it as a way to put everything I have learnt so far in my academic career into something more meaningful.

“I have always been passionate about Bermuda’s marine ecosystems, so seeing the effects of climate change on our waters is obviously of great concern.

“The conference is a way of showcasing what I have documented with regards to our oceans, and hopefully spread the knowledge and understanding of how climate change can disproportionately affect small islands like ours.”

Alex, who represented Bermuda in the Caribbean Cycling Championships and Carifta Games, added: “Through this climate summit, I hope to inspire our youth to place themselves in a position where they can actually do something about the issue, much like I am trying to do for myself.

“The most feasible way of actually combating climate change is through technological innovation — be it through things like renewable energy systems, geoengineering or carbon capture.

“Being the small nation that it is, Bermuda has an insignificant carbon footprint — we don’t make a difference with regards to global CO2 emissions.

“What will make a difference is what industries our youth decide to enter.”

Alex, who is also a photographer, added: “Young people are the future of this planet and are essential for its preservation.

“Conferences like this encourage young people to engage in climate action, providing a platform for their voices, ideas and solutions.

“In doing so, we can share and refine our ideas and ensure that emerging technologies can evolve into practical, scalable solutions, bridging the gap between current efforts and future needs in climate mitigation.

“I hope to achieve youth empowerment, encouraging them to recognise their potential in influencing policies and creating sustainable solutions.

“I want to emphasise how small island nations like Bermuda are at greater risk, and to stress the importance of marine conservation.

“Most of all, I want to inspire our youths to think beyond conventional methods and ideologies surrounding climate change and explore new fields like engineering, biotechnology and environmental science to develop solutions for climate change mitigation.”

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