Duluth Youth Climate Action and Sustainability Summit: Building Community Connections for Environmental Action

Project Summary

Harbor City International School’s Action Club Team organized and hosted a comprehensive Climate Action and Sustainability Summit featuring over 20 local and state environmental organizations, a community clothing swap, and sustainable raffle prizes to connect community members with climate action resources and advocacy opportunities.

Detailed Story

Harbor City International School’s student-led Action Club Team planned and executed their first annual Climate Action and Sustainability Summit at The Depot Great Hall in Duluth. This ambitious community event brought together over 20 local and state organizations focused on environmental action, water protection, and sustainability education. Students worked closely with their Youth in Action coordinator, Aimee Bannwarth, to organize all aspects of the event setup and logistics. They personally contacted and coordinated with participating organizations to ensure comprehensive representation of climate action resources. The summit featured two main components: an extensive tabling area where attendees could learn about diverse environmental topics ranging from clothing repair and home composting to water pipe lead testing and climate advocacy strategies, and a community clothing swap that promoted sustainable consumption practices. Organizations included Climate Generation, Water Legacy, Waankam: People for the Estuary, Duluth for Clean Water, and MN350, among others. Students also organized a raffle featuring sustainable prizes and gift cards donated by local businesses, further engaging the community while promoting eco-friendly practices. The event successfully created connections between community members and environmental organizations while providing practical resources for individual and collective climate action.

Impact Statement

Connected community members with over 20 environmental organizations and resources. Provided education on topics from practical sustainability (clothing repair, composting) to policy advocacy (climate action, water protection). Successfully promoted circular economy practices through clothing swap. Built foundation for annual event expansion. Many attendees expressed surprise this was the first year and enthusiasm for future events.