A nationwide search has begun for 20 green and keen children to become members of the UK's first ever environmental think tank for seven to 14 year olds. The hunt begins as new research shows that our children believe they can make a difference to the green cause if they are listened to.

The think tank, called 'Our Planet, Our Say' and part of British Gas's Generation Green schools programme, will give the younger generation a voice on climate change - a problem they will have to face in the future as adults.

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The need for the think tank was made clear in research undertaken for the Generation Green programme. The research shows children want their voices heard on climate change, and are frustrated at being sidelined. The poll shows three quarters (74%) of UK children think adults are not doing enough to protect the environment, while a quarter (26%) feel frustrated that their green concerns fall on deaf ears. The data also shows how motivated the younger generation are, with half (49%) believing they can make a difference to the cause.

Joan Ruddock MP, Minister for Climate Change, said: "All the children I meet are passionate about the environment. They have great ideas and a real desire to change things. 'Our Planet, Our Say' is an opportunity for children to make their voices heard and for adults to listen to their ideas. Children are the politicians, scientists and parents of the future. It is vital for the wellbeing of the planet that they think about issues around climate change early on in their lives."

(CD/JM)