Reykjavík City has received a grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies to establish a youth climate fund in Reykjavík. Reykjavík is one of 100 cities across 38 countries to receive funding from this new initiative. The fund aims to engage youth in finding solutions to climate change, encouraging Reykjavík residents ages 15–24 to participate. The grant totals seven million króna, with the potential for an additional 14 million króna, and is designed to support a range of smaller projects led by young people.
Aligned with the goal of a carbon-neutral city
"We are grateful to have received this grant and to see Reykjavík recognized for its work on climate change. We look forward to launching this exciting climate fund. "I believe the City stands to benefit greatly from a youth climate council and from supporting young people in carrying out meaningful green projects," said Dagur B. Eggertsson, Chair of the City Executive Council.
Eligible projects can take many forms—addressing topics like transportation or waste management—and may include establishing a youth climate council, running awareness campaigns, conducting climate-related research, planting trees, or organizing a compost hackathon. All projects must support the Climate Policy and align with Reykjavík City's goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2040.
Cities leading on climate change
"Climate change is a challenge that requires participation from all segments of society, and it is essential that young people—who have the most at stake—help lead the way," said Michael R. Bloomberg, former mayor of New York and United Nations climate envoy, in a press release.
Cities around the world play a leading role in addressing climate change, often setting more ambitious targets than their national governments and moving faster to reduce carbon emissions. Reykjavík, for example, received a top score for its climate efforts in 2023.
Applications opening in early summer
Youth participation is crucial, and this age group is known to be deeply concerned about the climate crisis: international data shows that 84% of young people are worried, and more than 60% feel their national government is not doing enough. Bloomberg Philanthropies is the driving force behind this dedicated youth climate fund, from which selected cities will now benefit.
In early summer, Reykjavík will open applications and announce which types of projects are eligible for support, along with details on how the grants will be structured. For more information, contact project manager Benedikt Traustason atbenedikt.traustason@reykjavik.is.