First local youth representatives to lead on nature and environment
Bodh Cullis and Zoe Gowers have been chosen to be the first local youth representatives for The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere.
They will use their passion for connecting others with nature to champion environmental action in The Living Coast area, which stretches from the River Adur to the Ouse and includes the city of Brighton & Hove.
Bodh and Zoe are joining a nationwide movement to strengthen youth voices in environmental conservation. They will work alongside community members, local partners, and stakeholders to promote conservation, education and sustainable economic development.
Improving access and protecting nature
Councillor Tim Rowkins, Cabinet member for Net Zero and Environmental Services, said: “It’s fantastic to welcome our first youth representatives for The Living Coast Biosphere. Bodh and Zoe will be a vital link between young people and decision-makers.
“Our unique landscape of coast and downland has worldwide recognition from UNESCO for the way local people work together for biodiversity, conservation and improving access to nature. Young people are critical to that success and as a lead partner in The Living Coast, I’m looking forward to working with them to shape the future.”
Bodh, who has experience as a teacher, aims to promote inclusive access to nature. They said: “I regularly lead classes outdoors, relating topics to the natural world. I enjoy sharing my students' inquisitiveness, joy and excitement as we explore how the world around us works.”
As a surfer and sea swimmer, Zoe is keen to raise awareness about the importance of protecting our coastline. She said: “I want to inspire others to connect with the natural world, especially those living in urban areas where access to green spaces can be challenging.”
Inspiring the next generation of environmental leaders
Jeremy Kerswell, Principal and CEO at Plumpton College, commented: “We are delighted that one of our students, Bodh, has been appointed to this significant role. At Plumpton College, we are proud to support Bodh as they continue to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders and work towards a more sustainable future connecting people to nature.”
The University of Sussex’s Prof Robin Banerjee, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Global and Civic Engagement said: “At the University of Sussex, sustainability is a key focus in teaching, research and on our campus, and it is a passion that is shared with so many of our staff and students.
“It's fantastic that a Sussex student has been selected as one of the first youth representatives for The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere. We live, work and study in an environmentally diverse part of the country and all who enjoy it wish to preserve it. We are excited to see how Zoe connects with the community and becomes a voice that will help shape the future of our local area.”
UK & Ireland Biosphere Youth Forum
Zoe and Bodh will take part in the UK & Ireland Biosphere Youth Forum on 27 March at the University of Brighton’s Wild House.
About The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere
The Living Coast has been a designated UNESCO Biosphere since 2014, recognising its world-class environment of rare chalk downland and successful collaborations on sustainable practices, education, research and connecting people with nature.
It stretches from the River Adur to the Ouse and from the South Downs National Park to the Marine Conservation Zone, encompassing the city of Brighton & Hove and the town of Lewes.
The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere is a partnership of voluntary, conservation, community, education, local government and private and public sectors, with Brighton & Hove as a lead partner. Together they share best practice and deliver actions and solutions that support sustainable living.
Flagship projects include The Aquifer Project, Our City, Our World, and Greening The Cities.
Find more information on The Living Coast website.