Vibrant young people wanting to make a difference and conserve Queensland's precious environment are invited to become members of the Queensland Youth Environment Council and advise government on key issues.

Environment Minister Vicky Darling, Education Minister Cameron Dick and Member for Kallangur Mary-Anne O'Neil met with QYEC member, Sam Harvey, to discuss the council's latest project to empower students to run an environment club in their secondary school and promote sustainability across their school campuses.

"QYEC provides an opportunity for young people to provide their perspective on environment issues and about Queensland's future," Ms Darling said.

"I am delighted to endorse QYEC's JUST ONE policy scheduled to be rolled out across secondary schools this year which includes online auditing tools, project planning, activities and environment clubs.

"As one individual, as one class, as one school or as one group, everybody has the capacity to make a difference, no matter how large or small.

"Today's youth are going to inherit a changing climate and the associated impacts - it's just so important for them to be part of the solution.

Member for Kallangur Mary-Anne O'Neil encouraged 15 to 25 year olds to apply and become a member of QYEC.

"Applicants will be assessed on their overall commitment to environmental issues; their level of interest and participation in environmental activities within the community; and their commitment and skills as a youth leader, inspiring others to act," Ms O'Neil said.

"Council members meet two or three times throughout the year to consider specific environmental and sustainability issues, develop youth engagement projects and advise back to the Queensland Government," she said .

"QYEC was set up in 2007 to provide advice to the Queensland Governmentfrom a youth perspective on key environment issues including climate change, waste, renewable energy and biodiversity conservation.

QYEC reports to the Environment Minister and Education Minister.

Education Minister Cameron Dick said Council members also acted as youth leaders to enhance awareness and inspire other young people to take action to achieve a more environmentally sustainable future for Queensland.

"QYEC provides a fantastic opportunity for council members to engage and educate other Queensland youth," Mr Dick said.

"We are looking to appoint members reflecting the geographic, cultural, age and gender diversity of Queensland's young people.

"The current Council has engaged with ministers on issues such as renewable energy, water, national parks, and climate change, and spread its message to other young people at events including University O-weeks, the World Environmental Education Congress and by hosting Re-fashion (recycled clothing) parades.".

Applications are now open and will close on 2 March 2012. The first meeting of the new Council will be held in May 2012.

The Queensland Youth Environment Council website www.qyec.org.au provides further information on the Council, and the application process.

Environment | The Honourable Vicky Darling | 23/01/2012