The 18–28 generation sits on the front line of the climate crisis, yet is often underrepresented in shaping Scotland’s response. DNA prioritises community-led action, support, and tools to move from understanding challenges to leading solutions.
A welcoming, diverse space where young adults act for nature alongside people who understand their experiences. Building a representative community is central to our mission and to better outcomes for nature.
Participants shape the Award from day one. Through our youth-led steering group, surveys, and open conversations, DNA evolves with each cohort, staying relevant and responsive.
Take action locally and in wilder landscapes. As skills grow, move into volunteering, green jobs, and wider opportunities, bringing missing voices into the environmental sector.
Graduates become advocates for nature recovery, contributors to wellbeing, and active members of the wider environmental movement. DNA helps you take the first steps and stay connected.
Build confidence, connect with like-minded peers, and have a collective voice in shaping Scotland’s response to the climate emergency.
“The Award’s co-design approach (creating an award for young people BY young people) made me feel genuinely heard in a sector where voices often simply echo back.
To see your voice actioned is huge for a young person, and that’s an absolute merit to this award. This isn’t just a nice addition; it’s vital because it makes you feel part of something bigger than yourself.”
