More than 30 climate researchers from the Priestley Centre at the University Leeds attended one of the previous two youth strikes for climate that took place in Leeds in March. At each event they took the opportunity to talk to young people and Leeds residents about the climate crisis, and answered a range of questions. Answers to some of them are online here.

We’re certain that our climate researchers are not the only ones who believe the youth are doing brilliant things by striking for the climate. We’ve spoken to some of the organisers in Leeds (our own students) for the next climate strike taking place 11am-2pm Friday 12th April, and we are calling on University staff to come along to show their support.

The time is now to take action to avoid climate breakdown. It is crucial that staff at the university have a voice and take a stance in this universal human life threatening issue. The children are leading the way. Let’s go and show them that they are right, and that they have our support.

UCU is part of a wider regional network of unions concerned about the climate crisis and searching for coalitions in our workplaces. Locally, we have passed a motion on creating a finance group that monitors UOL external investment that damages the environment and contributes to raising Co2. Leeds UCU is developing a campaign for divestment. Motions to this effect will be brought to the next UCU general meeting (Thursday 2nd May 1-2 pm Roger Stevens 8.04). Please come to this meeting to help us show how important this issue is for our union.

We invite those of you that are able to, to form an audience for the youth strikers, joining conversations and enjoying the range of performances planned for outside the Leeds Town Hall 11am-2pm Friday 12th April

If you cannot walk out during the lunch break, you can still make noise on the day and contribute to supporting the youth climate strike by:
• Talking to your colleagues about what is happening
• Wear something green on the day
• Share the event on social media:
• Like and follow the facebook page LeedsYouthStike4Climate
• Share the hashtag #UOLStaff4ClimateStrike

Gabriella Alberti and Andrea Rylands on behalf of the Leeds UCU Committee Environmental Reps