"The young have the biggest investment in the future of our planet," says Sheffield duo helping to lead change with Extinction Rebellion Sheffield

“Climate change has always been on my radar,” says the 24-year-old.

“I’m doing a PHD in solar cells, so I have a good idea about what is out there, and the technology available.

“I remember when the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change 2018 report was released, it stirred up such a feeling of dread and sadness in the community of scientists.

“It was at that point that I realised that I needed to do more than just study.

“I joined Extinction Rebellion Sheffield that day.”

Adam also points out that the scientific community is standing up and becoming more vocal on the issue of climate change.

“That’s especially the case with younger scientists, like myself, who feel it is our duty to inform the public,” explains the Sheffield student.

“I believe it’s our failing, when we leave it to the media and journalists, people who don’t truly understand what we’re going on about, to explain it to everyone else, or politicians to mis-represent our message.

“I think a lot of scientists are now coming forward to speak out, because the message is one that is simply too important to get lost in translation.”

Fellow Extinction Rebellion-member Nathan Stradee, aged 20, agrees.

“I think this last few months, with the global pandemic, has proved that the sooner you react to a crisis, the better,” says Nathan, who is currently working towards a degree in energy and sustainability engineering at the University of Sheffield.

“Extinction Rebellion Sheffield is a great vessel for change, and along with the youth strikes, its campaign has been one of the most effective methods of publicising and bringing people into the fight against climate change.

"Now, it’s vital that our authorities take real, immediate action to back their declarations up."

Nathan reveals he has always had an interest in environmental issues, and joined Extinction Rebellion Sheffield early in 2019.

“I’d done a lot of reading, and felt it was time for me to get involved,” he says.

“It’s important that we have everyone on board if we’re going to make a real change, and that includes young people, as they’re the ones who can really change the future, and obviously have the biggest investment in it.

“There are a lot of young voices helping to lead this campaign.”