When age isn't an obstacle to climate action

Sep 24

*Ella Larsen recording footage for the 2025 Voice of 1,000 report on Climate Change. Photo courtesy of:* *ellalarsen.com*

By Patricia Lane & Ella Larsen

Ella Larsen shows age is no obstacle to climate action. The 14-year-old student from Saanich, BC, has been helping shape a better future since she was eight. This fall, as she enters Grade 9, she is intent on transforming beverage services at the University of Victoria.

Tell us about some of your past work.

When I was eight, I participated in CarbonRewind, a contest sponsored by a local charity to encourage us to take responsibility for our own ecological footprints. I interviewed the mayor of Victoria about bike safety. Since then, I have worked with the Saanich mayor and the district’s engineering department to make a major street more pedestrian- and bike-friendly. I participated in a survey sponsored by SoWCool of 1,000 youth about their attitudes to climate change. Also with SoWCool, I make videos explaining aspects of climate science for other kids, like this one, which shows kids how plants absorb carbon dioxide. Too Much Carbon Too Much Heat has almost 4,000 views now! Another video I made for the Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Programs helps kids see how their attention to recycling can Rubbish or Refurbish the Ocean.

Ella is a 2025 recipient of the National Youth Climate Activism Award.

YCAA recipients

Peter Allan

When age isn't an obstacle to climate action

Tell us about some of your past work.

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