Turku is once again participating in the international Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund program, which supports youth-led climate action in cities around the world.
Turku is one of 300 cities receiving funding and technical support through the program to implement climate initiatives led by young people. The program particularly supports the participation of young people aged 15–24 in planning and carrying out their own climate and environmental solutions. In Turku, approximately €40,000 will be available during this funding round for projects designed and implemented by young people.
The Youth Climate Action Fund has expanded significantly since its launch in 2024. The program builds on results achieved in 34 countries, where 98 cities – including Turku – have implemented concrete climate actions together with young people. The initiative has now grown to include 300 cities worldwide.
So far, more than 300,000 young people across five continents have taken part in the program. Together with cities, young participants have established more than 1,600 green spaces, planted 235,000 trees, and collected over 405,000 kilograms of litter and recyclable materials.
29 Youth-led Projects Already Implemented in Turku
Between 2024 and 2025, Turku funded 29 youth-led climate projects through the program with nearly €116,000 in total support. Around 140 young people participated in implementing the projects.
The projects have been diverse and strongly shaped by young people themselves. Funding has supported, for example, an energy renovation for a scout training vessel, the publication of a climate magazine, artworks created from waste and landfill materials, as well as trainings, nature days, and discussion events on topics such as urban greenery.
According to Mayor Piia Elo, youth participation is an essential part of building Turku’s future.
“Young people play an important role in shaping the future of Turku. We want young people not only to be the target group of climate work, but active contributors and changemakers. In Turku, we are investing in young people’s wellbeing, participation, and opportunities to influence the development of their city. The Turku envisioned by young people is a safe, communal city that values nature – and that is exactly the kind of city we are building together with them. It is wonderful that Turku is once again part of this impactful international program, which brings young people into climate action and makes the city feel even closer to its younger residents,” says Mayor Elo.
In Turku’s new strategy, children and young people play a central role, and during the current council term the city is making strong investments in youth wellbeing, participation, and opportunities to build their future in Turku.
“Turku is growing and renewing itself. Growth is not an end in itself for us, but a way to build a better Turku. We want to ensure that children and young people can grow up safely, discover their strengths, and influence the development of their own city. It is great that we can offer young people concrete opportunities to make an impact and take visible action for the climate and the environment,” Elo continues.
Applications for Youth Climate Projects Open in the Autumn
The application period for youth climate projects will open in August 2026. Funded projects can be implemented from November 2026 through spring 2027 at the latest.
Within the program, Turku is building long-term youth participation based on earlier pilot initiatives and strong political commitment. The aim is to strengthen young people’s sense of inclusion, community, and ability to influence change.
Results from the first phase of the program show that youth participation also strengthens trust in decision-making. According to an international survey, young people’s trust in local government increased from 61% to 83% during the program. At the same time, young people’s confidence in their own ability to influence environmental challenges rose from 65% to 90%.