Edinburgh climate protest: Pupil from West Lothian makes public protest as he urges politicians to act in the face of climate crisis

A pupil from West Lothian is missing school all this week, despite upcoming Highers, to urge politicians to act in the fact of the climate crisis.

Dylan Hamilton, 16, sat on the streets through out Monday, missing school, in order to protest the climate crisis.

He explained: “I’ve been doing the weekly strikes for two years now.

"The strikes just don’t seem to be reflected in politics, I mean, there was a slight increase in targets in 2019 but apart from that…

"I’m doing it now because the elections are coming up.”

The weekly strikes were inspired by iconic climate campaigner Greta Thunberg who encouraged school pupils to take every Friday off school to stir the government into action.

It was called Fridays for Future and involved pupils from all over the world.

‘I’m very determined and stubborn’: West Lothian pupil starts week long climate protest.

Dylan is hoping that his protest will remind the political parties of their promises after declaring the climate emergency.

His parents haven’t been thrilled with his decision as this is an important school year, and his Highers are looming.

He smiled: “I’m good at catching up with work.

"I know it’s a risk, but hopefully that will show what a big deal it is.

"My parents didn’t say no, they totally understand the reason I wanted to do this.

"I’m very stubborn and determined.”

He has taken up a daily position with a sign at Edinburgh City Chambers.

His stance has been supported by fellow campaigner Greta Thunberg who tweeted: “Let’s all support the incredibly brave Dylan! We have your back.”

The Fridays for Future movement’s key aims include keeping the global temperature rise below 1.5 °C and ensuring climate justice.

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