Louis, 10, on the Earth Day march in central London on Saturday

Dear Reader

I am 10 years old and at primary school. I am really worried about the climate emergency. It seems very clear that humans have caused a lot of damage to the natural world and that we must stop as soon as possible.

I came to join the biodiversity march on Earth Day this weekend because I want to help raise awareness about the importance of caring for nature.

I am very passionate about wildlife. It is important for me to take a stand and say that I want to protect wildlife on our planet.

I think this is a great thing for everyone to participate in. It’s exciting to be here with thousands of people. I think it’s one of the best things you can do on Earth Day.

When I’m at home and I think about climate change sometimes it feels as if no one else cares. Seeing the crowds on Saturday gives me confidence that a lot of people of all ages do care about the future of our planet.

I’m worried what life will be like for me and my friends. Children didn’t make this happen and we really want adults to listen. I’ve never seen so many people before in one place.

All these people joining me for the same reason is incredible. I think there should have been even more people with us.

Climate change affects everyone, and we should be worried about what’s going to happen in the future – it sometimes keeps me awake at night.

We have already experienced extreme weather here in London, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees for the first time and flooding too. I really don’t want to have to live in a future with such extreme weather; in other parts of the world it’s already much worse and that makes me sad.

Chris Packham’s speech was inspirational. He asked us to thank someone we didn’t know for being here. I was very grateful to everyone who came to the march. It was friendly and fun. I wish many more celebrities, politicians, musicians, teachers, everyone really, would speak out like he does.

Everyone can make a difference. There were a lot of children and teenagers at the march, which shows that we want to be heard. I am proud to speak up for what I believe in. Children don’t normally get to be heard, but today we asked the government to help protect wildlife and nature.

I don’t know why the government aren’t acting on this crucial matter. I hope they listened to us. This march is not just for children, it’s for everyone. I think we all deserve a safe future and not to worry about the climate crisis. I really enjoyed being part of this enormous march, especially singing and chanting.

I was able to express myself about what I want – protect nature now! The Earth Day march has given me hope.

Louis (age 10) Barnsbury