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Sustainable You(th) Challenge: Growing a better future

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Applications for the Sustainable Youth Challenge have now closed.

Thank you to the incredible students who applied to be part of this year’s programme. We’ve been inspired by your passion for sustainability, environmental leadership and creating a climate-positive future.

Successful applicants will be contacted shortly.   

Please check back on this page for updates and take a look at the key dates below to see what happens next. 

What happens next? 

28 January 2026: Applications close after which industry judges will shortlist 60 semi-finalists 

25 April 2026: Challenge Day at Harper Adams University (Travel bursaries to support attendance)

7 June 2026: Engagement with Open Farm Sunday – the agri-industry’s annual open day

4-6 September 2026: 2-day residential finalists’ weekend at Harper Adams University where final winners will be announced. (Travel bursaries to support attendance)

Why students take part? 

Even though applications are now closed, here’s why so many students choose the Sustainable Youth Challenge:

  • Explore a leading University and discover future pathways and opportunities  linked to sustainability, environmental science and food production – gaining insights into cutting-edge courses and careers shaping our planet’s future.
  • Connect with industry leaders in sustainability and agri-food, gaining exclusive access to events, mentoring, and opportunities to contribute to national food and farming and climate positive campaigns
  • Boost your CV, UCAS and job applications by showcasing your passion for sustainability and commitment to driving positive environmental change and to pursue green career options
  • Develop in-demand skills - teamwork, communication, research, critical thinking, adaptability and creativity – that will set you apart in any career.
  • Meet like-minded change makers – people your age eager to make a difference, solve global challenges, and shape the transition to more sustainable futures

  • Challenge yourself – build your confidence, discover your strengths, and have fun along the way!

Prizes include:

  • Opportunities to engage further with industry and gain real-world experience;
  • Bursaries to support further education in sustainability, food production, or the land-based sector;
  • Grade reductions for stand-out students to help secure a place at top universities;
  • And more opportunities and prizes still to be announced!

This is more than a chal­lenge, it is your chance to dri­ve change, gain invalu­able expe­ri­ence, and take the first step towards a mean­ing­ful, sus­tain­abil­i­ty-focused future.

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