SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom on Aug 13 announced that the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) is now accepting applications for the California Environmental Youth Advisory Council (Youth Council), a new statewide leadership opportunity for young people ages 14-20 who want to help shape California’s environmental future.

California’s Youth Council is open to young, passionate leaders from diverse backgrounds, communities, and experiences who are ready to bring fresh ideas to the table.

California’s youth are no strangers to the effects of wildfires, extreme heat, flooding, poor air quality, and other pollution. The Youth Council will help advance California’s nation-leading environmental policies for the next generation.

Young people from both rural and urban backgrounds, tribal communities, and those whose voices have historically been underrepresented in environmental decision-making are encouraged to apply. No previous advocacy or leadership experience is required.