Caring for the environment, Climate change, Innovation, Sustainability  |  10h ago

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Christchurch has been announced as one of 300 cities selected to take part in the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund, a global initiative empowering young people to design and deliver practical climate solutions in their own communities.

Through the programme, Christchurch City Council will receive US$50,000 (around NZ$85,000) to support local, youth-led climate projects, with micro-grants awarded to initiatives developed by rangatahi aged 15 to 24. The projects will align with the Council’s climate priorities and focus on community-level action.

Mayor Phil Mauger says he is delighted Christchurch has been selected for the programme.

“I was keen to get behind and support this initiative as soon as I heard about it. Having spent time talking with young people about climate action, I know just how passionate they are about making a difference for their city,” he says.

“Our young people bring energy, creativity, and a strong sense of responsibility for the future. I’m really looking forward to seeing the ideas they bring forward and the practical solutions they come up with for Christchurch.”

The Bloomberg Youth Climate Action Fund supports councils to partner directly with young people, build trust in local democracy, and deliver tangible climate actions. Participating cities provide small grants to youth-led projects, which may range from climate education and community resilience initiatives to sustainable transport, waste reduction, and nature-based solutions.

Mayor Mauger says involving young people is critical to delivering long-term change.

“It provides an opportunity to turn their bright ideas into action. I’m all for that, and it’s great to see our city recognised on the global stage for the work we’re already doing.

“Climate action isn’t something councils can do alone. By backing youth-led projects, we’re helping grow the next generation of leaders who are invested in the future of this city, while delivering real benefits for our communities today.”

The programme runs from April 2026 to May 2027. Within that period, the Council will run an open call for applications from young people, with successful projects receiving funding and support to bring their ideas to life.

Council staff will work closely with participants to ensure projects connect to the city’s wider programme of climate actions.

The Youth Climate Action Fund is established and supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, in partnership with the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation, C40 Cities, and United Cities and Local Governments. Since launching in 2024, the programme has supported youth climate action in cities across more than 30 countries.

Further details about when Christchurch applications will open and how young people can get involved will be announced in coming weeks.