Listen to the story here
Apr 9, 2025
By Kathryn Carley
Maine winters are now two weeks shorter than they were a century ago, according to the Maine Climate Office. Scientists project the state could be up to 10 degrees hotter by 2100, depending on reductions of climate-altering emissions. (Adobe Stock)
Despite federal uncertainty regarding climate related programs, high school students across Maine are focusing on the local actions they can take. About 250 students and teachers from more than two-dozen schools recently gathered to learn about weatherization, composting and recycling projects, and how to implement them in their own communities.
Abigail Hayne, youth climate engagement coordinator, Governor’s Office of Policy Innovation and the Future, said it was a chance for students to connect with other emerging climate leaders.
“We just keep emphasizing that there’s so many ways to get involved really at a local and state level and for students it’s all about letting them know where those opportunities are,” she said.
Hayne added that the state has created a new online climate-related jobs board. The state’s “Climate and Me” website also provides young people with information on how to get active and learn about the impacts of climate change on the state’s economy and environment.
Jobs and internships played a big role in the recent summit. Volunteer Maine shared climate related opportunities with AmeriCorps. The Maine Environmental Education Association and others talked about apprenticeships and alternatives to college. Hayne said the opportunities are growing.
“So, you could go more into the STEM side of things, you could be an electrician and work with your hands. And, so it was cool to let students know about those opportunities and to sort of see them light up because they just didn’t know these were jobs you could pursue,” she added.
Hayne said the topic of climate anxiety and the importance of knowing when to take a break from climate work to care for one’s own mental health was also discussed. Surveys show a majority of young people are extremely worried about climate change and its impact on their future. It’s also a top political concern for young voters.