The majority of students at Angus College want to see the Scottish Government take action on climate change.
A survey conducted by students revealed their concerns about climate change and its effect on the environment, with 85% wanting to see action taken in Scotland.
The results showed that expanding renewable energy was the most popular energy choice, followed by making buildings more energy efficient. Expansion of nuclear power received the least support from students.
The survey aimed to find out the level of awareness students had about climate change, current and future energy needs, and their views on meeting these.
Students from business and administration, engineering and class representatives were involved in the project. The results were shared and discussed with students and staff at Angus College.
Engineering student Allanah Cameron said: “The results demonstrated that more education on renewable and wind turbines is needed for students, along with a greater awareness of how to be more energy efficient.”
Lecturer Jamie Henderson stressed the importance of educating youngsters about energy.
He said: “With the Scottish Government not adopting new nuclear power stations and the current coal power stations reaching the end of their life, renewable energy, of all forms, will play an important role as part of the energy mix to keep our lights on and carbon emissions down.
“It is important to engage and educate the youth on matters of energy, including the associated problems. It is, after all, the youth that will be inheriting the country and the world.”
Eurowind, a wind energy developer, worked alongside the students on the project. The company’s proposed development of the Nathro Hill Wind Farm was used as an example of a renewable project.
Ian Lindsay of Eurowind said: “Working with the students at the college was a great experience and we were most impressed with their enthusiasm and interest in the issues.
“Whilst we were able to offer our experience of survey design and delivery along with opportunities to debate the issues around Scotland’s energy needs the students contributed lots of good ideas, designed the survey and got the results in.
“Looking ahead, we want to continue working with the students and the college on disseminating and learning from the results of the survey and hopefully on some future joint projects.”