SACRAMENTO –The State of California and the British Council are encouraging California high school students passionate about global warming to apply for a program that connects them with other "climate champions" across the globe, and helps them teach people in their schools, neighborhoods, and communities how to reduce their carbon footprint.

Eligible candidates include Californians in grades 9-12 who are committed to communicating about climate change and are excited to undertake local projects to address this global issue, such as conserving energy, reducing waste, and encouraging use of alternative transportation. The deadline for applications is Jan. 19., with winners announced in early February.

Two of the champions from California will be selected to represent the United States at a meeting of the International Climate Champions in Edinburgh, U.K. in late February. (All expenses for the trips are covered by the British Council.) The Edinburgh event will not only bring together champions from more than 13 countries, but will also feature education and training on project development, and will help build the basis for undertaking global projects over the coming year.

"Any high schooler who cares about global warming should apply to be a climate champion," said ARB Chairman Mary Nichols. "This program provides a great platform for youth to affect public policy and change behavior in their communities on the issue of our generation."

The Climate Champions competition is modeled after a program that originated in the United Kingdom and is now active in 13 countries through local British Council offices. Since last February, 15 California Climate Champions have been communicating about climate change, working on projects in their schools and communities and engaging with networks of champions around the world.

The 2009 California Climate Champions will develop and implement plans to communicate climate change in their schools or communities. As part of the program, they will have the opportunity to participate in a range of climate change-oriented activities, including an Orientation Day in April 2009, a "climate camp" in June 2009, online networking with peers and speaking at climate change meetings and events.

For rules, entry forms, and more information visit: http://www.coolcalifornia.org/article/champion-the-cause.

If you have further questions, please contact Annalisa Schilla of the California Air Resources Board at aschilla@arb.ca.gov .

The California Climate Champions program is sponsored by the California Air Resources Board and the British Council.

The California Air Resources Board is responsible for implementing a plan to achieve GHG emissions reductions by Assembly Bill 32, the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006. /cc/cc.htm .

The British Council is the United Kingdom's international organization for educational opportunities and cultural relations.