The Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute’s Youth Climate Summit, now in its third year, returns next month. This project offers students a unique, yearlong commitment to climate action, equipping them with the knowledge, skills and experience needed to address pressing local climate issues. As the director consultant of the YCS programme, I am honoured to have had the opportunity to work alongside numerous dedicated organisations striving to combat climate change.

This programme was designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of climate change, delving into complex and multifaceted subjects over the past two years. We have looked into the repercussions of climate change, with a particular emphasis this year on energy-related challenges, sustainable business practices and climate policy strategies — all tailored to the specific context of our island.

Our approach is anchored in real-world experiences, incorporating field trips, panel discussions and hands-on climate projects. A highlight of this year’s programme was the Youth Energy Round-Table forum, hosted by the Bermuda Business Development Agency where students had the opportunity to sit down with key stakeholders to discuss renewable energy. This was augmented by two field trips to BE Solar, where our students had the opportunity to engage in a training session led by Stratton Hatfield, focused on energy-efficiency methods and the latest advancements in solar energy technology.

We further explored the Ministry of Transport’s Zero-Emission Vehicle Policy and Strategy paper, and in a facilitated session, conducted a policy analysis and stakeholder assessment of this proposal. The results of our assessment were subsequently communicated to the Bermuda Government, highlighting areas of concern and potential opportunities. This exercise underscored the importance of learning how to objectively evaluate the ramifications of diverse sustainability strategies. Moreover, it emphasised the significance of facilitated role-play scenarios for understanding the varying interests, concerns and influence that each stakeholder group wields in the decision-making process.

Offering the right balance of training, coaching and project support to students has been crucial. This year, students committed to three youth-driven, climate-action projects in energy, reef protection and beach plastic waste. Collaboration with various organisations has been instrumental in bringing these projects to fruition. Our students had the opportunity to engage with experts — Eric Hochberg, of the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences, and Robbie Smith, of Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo — facilitating valuable exchanges for our reef-conservation project.

The sustainability team, in turn, worked with Keep Bermuda Beautiful and Nonsuch Expeditions, conducting a beach clean-up on Nonsuch Island and Shelly Bay. The climate justice track was introduced to governmental representatives Adrian Dill and David Northcott, and aligned their project goals with the Department of Energy’s LED campaign. With the backing of the Bermuda Government and support of Diane Gordon from the Bermuda Red Cross, our students effectively implemented LED bulb installations in numerous households. This provided an opportunity to connect with communities and gain insights into the challenges and prospects associated with a comprehensive, island-wide LED bulb deployment.

Our conservation team had the privilege of visiting the BAMZ to deepen their understanding of reef systems under the guidance of Alexandra Amat. Additionally, they partook in a marine ecosystem workshop at the Warwick Academy Marine Science Facility. Understanding the impacts of climate change on Bermuda’s reef system was a vital learning goal, and our students put this knowledge into practice by creating a reef exhibit for World Ocean Day at BUEI.

What truly sets our programme apart is the opportunity for students to exchange with experts from various organisations. Some of our students had the privilege of attending the business-focused Bermuda Climate Summit, where they gained insights into climate risk, carbon crediting, and environmental, social and governance measures. This exposure inspired student Isaiah Fraser to complete the Mid-Atlantic Robotics In Education programme at BIOS, which was featured by staff member Kaitlin Noyes.

Indeed, it emphasises the growing interest for science programmes for young Bermudians and the importance of collaborating across various organisations. For instance, Zoe Mir, made a significant contribution by submitting an article to the Young Reporters for the Environment competition, which highlighted our YCS trip to Nonsuch Island. This exceptional effort earned her second place internationally.

Zoe’s commitment to environmental causes extended further as she returned to Burt Island, where she earned a scuba-diving certification through Waterstart. Similarly, an introduction to the visiting activist Bodhi Patil opened doors for Zahra Trott, a YCS alumni, who secured an Ocean Uprise internship opportunity. Through this partnership, Zahra has been actively involved in raising international awareness about ocean plastics with Parley for the Oceans, while also collaborating with our sustainability group to initiate local projects.

Recognising the imperative for career development and support for our students, we organised a YCS Youth Networking event with the generous support of Amanda Swan. This event provided the chance to engage with local expert Laura Lyons, of Acceleration & Entrepreneurial Enablement, and gain insights into the abundant opportunities within the insurance industry, as presented by RenRe’s Angela A’Zary and Michelle St Jane.

Environmental stewardship demands diligence and commitment, and our students have been fortunate to meet numerous remarkable individuals over the past year. Notably, Jeremy Madeiros, who has played a pivotal role in preserving the cahow bird population on Nonsuch Island, and Tom Wadson, of Wadson’s Farm, who is recognised for his contributions to sustainable agricultural practices.

Climate advocacy and initiatives manifest in various forms, with the impacts and responses to climate change transcending industry boundaries; thus, many individuals can contribute to the cause, provided that they are willing to make the effort. This concept was vividly exemplified during a recent visit to Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, where we engaged in a sustainable cooking class led by executive chef Adam Ashe and his skilled team. These culinary artists showcased how local ingredients can be transformed into delectable dishes, effectively minimising food waste and repurposing leftovers. This demonstration not only highlighted their expertise but also underscored the multifaceted nature of climate action, emphasising the significance of involving diverse experts and expanding our perspective on how climate change can be tackled.

This transformative programme empowers young Bermudians to take climate action, fostering a brighter, more sustainable future for all. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of it.

• Rosemarie McMahon, PhD is the consulting director to the Youth Climate Programme, a Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute initiative. The Youth Climate Summit runs from November 10 to 18 and is open to students aged 13 to 22. Registration closes on October 23. To learn more, visit www.YCSBA.com.