Buckden 7-year-old selected to join new green think tank

A SEVEN-year-old eco-enthusiast from Buckden will be helping to save the planet after winning a coveted place on a new green think tank. William Steel has become one of just 22 schoolchildren from across the country to be chosen to take part in the Our P

A SEVEN-year-old eco-enthusiast from Buckden will be helping to save the planet after winning a coveted place on a new green think tank.

William Steel has become one of just 22 schoolchildren from across the country to be chosen to take part in the Our Plant, Our Say project.

The Buckden CofE Primary School pupil has been selected for the nationwide Generation Green initiative run by British Gas. It is aimed at helping schools tackle climate change through teaching pupils greener behaviour.

William and the 21 other members will begin their new role at a workshop at a recycling plant in Dagenham, Essex on Saturday (June 20).

They will learn environmental issues and environmental challenges as well as creating a three-point plan to save the planet. The plan will be formed into a manifesto which will then be presented to the Government at the end of the year.

William entered the competition in April when he described why he should win the chance to have his voice heard as a member of Our Planet, Our Say.

His winning answer contained ideas about how he tries to avoid damaging the environment and reduce his carbon footprints. He already recycles bottles, glass, cardboard and cans and grows his own vegetables.

"I'm so excited about the workshop and I hope we come up with an idea that helps people make less waste," said William.

Managing director of British Gas new energy, Gear�id Lane, said: "We chose William as one of our winners because his application showed such passion and enthusiasm for green issues.