Hundreds of protestors gathered across Grampian and the Highlands today to highlight their concerns about climate change.
Pupils took a day off school and adults from all backgrounds took time off work for a strike that called for urgent action to be taken across the globe.
The demonstrations are part of the larger Global Climate Strike movement, led by famous teenage activist Greta Thunberg, with millions of people taking part.
It was the third event of its kind, in which young people are encouraged to take to the streets of towns and cities and demand the right to a “liveable future”.
Aberdeen
In Aberdeen, hundreds gathered with banners and signs – including university students, school children, local politicians and union members.
Aberdeen University student Tomás Pizarro-Escuti hosted the protest, and said it was “truly amazing” to have upwards of 1,000 people join in.
The organisers encouraged protestors to take to the elevated grass area on Broad Street to share their own stories.
Fellow student Mustafa Mabruk gave an impassioned speech about the need to take action.
He said: “I am from Libya and I cant live there due to two reasons – the conflict but also the rising temperatures.
“It’s getting as warm as 45 degrees there – affecting people’s work and livelihoods.
“Across the world people are losing their homes, and islands are flooding. It’s crisis point.
“Climate change is the biggest challenge to our generation.”
Speaking at the strike, East Aberdeenshire MSP Gillian Martin said: “Please get in touch with your MSPs and councillors and ask the difficult questions.
“Do not let private companies off the hook, these people have a responsibility too.”
Kate Ramsden, of Aberdeenshire Unison, added: “Climate change is the single biggest threat faced by humanity and we already have seen the poorest communities pay the price.
“The Western Isles, and all our islands, are under huge threat – the time for action is now.
“There is not enough being done to defeat the threat.”
Caroline Beaumelou from Aberdeen Student Climate Network said: “Aberdeen is a really symbolic city for something like this, just because we have so much of the industries based around oil.
“So it’s really important that we have in cities, like this one, a presence and just to prove that people care about the environment and the future.
“We’re hoping that politicians, government leaders, even just people around the world, will take notice and start to change the way that they not only act, but govern.
“So, policymakers, take action.”
Inverness
Falcon Square was centre stage for protestors in the Highland capital with several hundred people turning up to rally against climate change. Some stores in the area also closed as a mark of support.
Forres
Climate change campaigners lined the streets of Forres today as part of strike action taking place across the world.
Dozens of participants were spotted dressed up for the occasion representing frogs, eagles and tigers to raise awareness about endangered species.
The march was held in honour of the Global Climate Strike inspired by avid campaigner Greta Thunberg.
