Holly Dawson and Gina Cubbitt are convenors in Launceston for the Australian Youth Climate Coalition. 

The duo are passionate about making a change within society in regard to the threat of climate change.

The youth-led organisation has groups across Australia and it aims to hold decision-makers to account on environmental concerns.

The group provides young people with the education to create positive responses.

“It’s part of a social movement, not just some activists making noise, it’s a growing climate movement around the world, and at the heart of that is young people.” Ms Cubbitt said. 

Climate change activists can often be viewed as environmental extremists, however the AYCC has more of an educational focus.

Often people feel as though voting for political parties is not effective, as was the case of Ms Dawson.

“After the failure of the Kyoto Protocol and Copenhagen, I felt as though simply voting for a political party was not enough. I felt like I had to do more.” Ms Dawson said.

The AYCC believes that the best way to build a climate movement in Australia is to equip young people with the tools to make it happen.

Volunteers of AYCC have been involved in events and campaigns including the global event the People’s Climate March.

For the Love of Our Reef was a AYCC campaign to protect the Great Barrier Reef from the threat of large mining companies.

The companies planned to construct the world’s largest coal mine close to the World Heritage listed site.

The AYCC places an emphasis on leadership training, as they hold leadership camps and summits throughout Australia.

The organisation has had a positive effect on both Ms Dawson and Ms Cubbitt, as both have inspired many to act now for climate justice.

“As soon as I joined AYCC, I instantly felt valued and that I mattered.” Ms Cubbitt said.

In 2015, the world endured the hottest year on record significantly due to human-induced climate change. 

Many countries frequently experienced extreme weather events, while the pacific island of Kirribati withstood another rise in sea levels, causing the island to become more submerged under water. 

The AYCC now has more than 120,000 members, 100 local groups, and 500 regular volunteers, some of which reside in our very own island home.

To find out more search for AYCC Tasmania on Facebook.