Launched in conjunction with Capacity Global {1}, a London based think-tank, the ‘Just Cities’ toolkit gives practical advice to young people on how to design and carry out campaigns for environmental and social justice, such as information on fund-raising and campaign ideas and resources.

The booklet also includes useful tips on how to contact local Councillors, MPs and MEPs as well as template letters to raise awareness of environmental justice to influential public officials.

Jean, who supported the project, said: “A clear message from young people involved in earlier research from Capacity Global was that they were interested in their environment and community but didn’t know how to get involved.  This toolkit helps to answer their needs.  It has been done with young people for young people.  They need to be part of the decision-making that shapes their lives.  I hope that the toolkit will encourage young people across the capital to exercise their democratic powers and to make a positive difference.”

The toolkit is part of Capacity Global’s ‘Just Cities’ project which aims to start a conversation with young people about their vision for the communities they live in and how they can change the world for the better.  Co-written by young people, it is hoped that the toolkit will offer a positive ‘can-do’ alternative to the riots witnessed this summer.

Capacity Global’s director Maria Adebowale said: ‘‘With this summers riots, higher education being made ever more expensive and jobs being harder to come by, it’s not surprising that young people feel opportunities available to them are becoming increasingly slim. Crucially, young people often feel too excluded from their communities and political processes that can change things. The Just Cities project aims to help more young people get their voices heard in the political processes that can improve the environment, communities and economic opportunities.”

Notes to Editor

1. Capacity Global is the only UK based non-governmental organization and social enterprise working solely on environmental justice.  Capacity Global works specifically with individuals and communities in urban areas who suffer from social, environmental and economic deprivation to ensure their voices get heard.

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