Summary

While We Still Can (WWSC) developed in 2023 through collaboration between Stacked Wonky and Somerset Wildlife Trust as a supportive space for young people aged 12 to 18 to creatively explore and respond to climate and ecological issues. One of their key initiatives, the “Down to Zero” pop-up shop, promoted plastic reduction efforts in Porlock, North Somerset, and exemplified how creative youth-led projects can inspire change.

The “While We Still Can” youth group began by exploring the passions and environmental concerns of its members, which led to focused research on key issues in their local community. The group were empowered by expert researchers and creative practitioners to embolden them in their project; to deepen their sense of agency, independence and efficacy.

They collectively decided to open a pop-up shop called “Down to Zero” in Porlock to raise awareness about single-use plastics. The shop ran for eight weeks, filled with 350 plastic items that were given to customers in exchange for pledges to reduce plastic waste. The project, which coincided with Porlock’s late-night Christmas shopping, received broad support and inspired further environmental action in the community, with ongoing interest and funding, alongside follow-up one-off events to share the approach.