Young Green Briton Challenge

Launched in 2022, the Young Green Briton Challenge (YGBC) is a national, year-long programme that brings climate education, innovation and entrepreneurship into schools.

Funded by the Green Britain Foundation and other key partners, this programme is delivered in partnership with Social Innovation for All, CIC and GenEarth CIC, with support from the Ministry of Eco Education team. The Challenge helps students aged 11–18 develop practical climate solutions while building essential life and employability skills. 

“Our mission is to empower young people to create a greener world — by turning awareness into action.”

How it works

Each participating school selects a full year group to take part. Students form teams to identify local climate issues and design entrepreneurial solutions that address them, from tackling food waste to promoting sustainable transport or reducing plastic pollution.

The journey begins with a Design Sprint Workshop, where students explore the root causes of environmental challenges and learn creative problem-solving skills. Teams then refine their ideas into tangible projects; products, campaigns or enterprises, before pitching them at their school’s Eco Dragons’ Den.

Winning teams go on to represent their schools at the Regional Challenge Finals, where they can secure seed funding, mentorship and national recognition.

Our impact

Since launching, the Challenge has grown rapidly, reaching over 14,000 students across England.

In 2024/2025 alone:  

• 45 diverse schools took part in YGBC (up from 18), including high proportions of pupils eligible for Free School Meals and 11% special schools.

• 7,500+ students aged 11–18 participated, generating thousands of climate action ideas, with 100+ implemented in homes, schools, and communities nationwide.  

• 87% of students improved their understanding of climate change, while 83% developed key employability skills such as teamwork, problem solving, and listening. 

• Despite widespread eco-anxiety, 79% of students felt hopeful about their ability to make a positive difference on climate change.  

• Students who delivered projects reported further growth in leadership, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.  

• 100% of teachers would recommend YGBC, describing it as “rewarding, impactful, and future focused.”  

• 60+ expert volunteers from green industries connected students to real-world sustainability careers while building their own skills. 

• YGBC students became the first to gain an accredited project qualification, and the programme retained its Skills Builder Level 3 Accreditation, with particularly strong gains in problem solving, teamwork, and listening. 

Across its first three years, the Challenge has engaged over 6,000 students in 23 schools, helping them develop confidence, collaboration skills and environmental literacy.

“91% of participants increased their understanding of climate change, 80% gained valuable skills, and 82% felt more hopeful about their ability to make a difference.”

What students learn

Through the Challenge, students explore a range of real-world sustainability issues, including:

• Biodiversity loss

• Air and plastic pollution

• Food waste and deforestation

• Fast fashion

• Access to renewable energy

• Sustainable transport

By working in teams, they learn critical thinking, problem-solving, communication and leadership; the skills needed for a green economy and a more sustainable society.

A collaborative approach

The Young Green Briton Challenge connects schools with industry experts, conservation leaders and educators. Together, they provide mentorship and practical guidance, ensuring students receive accessible, high-quality climate education.

The programme is also highly rated by teachers, with 100% of participating educators recommending it to colleagues for its relevance, creativity and impact.

Looking ahead

The YGBC continues to grow, with more schools joining each year. Together we are igniting a national movement to build a generation of skilled, empowered changemakers who will shape a brighter and greener future.  

By 2035 our goal is that YGBC will be available to all secondary schools, as an accredited project-based learning delivered by both teachers and local partners. 

“Young people aren’t just the leaders of tomorrow, they’re the changemakers of today.”

Get involved

Schools, teachers and potential partners are invited to join the next cohort of the Young Green Briton Challenge.

Inspire your students. Empower your community. Help build a greener Britain.

Download the latest impact report here