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“There is a preponderance of evidence that’s in favour of the reality of climate change,” Stirling said. “It is a real, grave, serious threat that is already affecting lives here in Canada.”

A 2015 review of studies disputing anthropogenic climate change found methodological flaws, missing context and ignored data.

Trustees back student strike participation

On Monday, trustee Michael Janz said he intended to ask his colleagues Tuesday to back a motion granting students amnesty from any academic penalty while missing school Friday for a climate walkout and protest.

As a hefty agenda stretched the board meeting into its fifth hour Tuesday, Stirling introduced a motion for Janz, proposing the board “allows students the option, with parent or guardian permission, to attend the climate action event” on Friday.

Stirling also encouraged students, staff and families to “discuss the impending climate emergency” in schools and on their own.

The motion passed 6-1, with Adams opposed.

Yara Cabral-Seixas, a 16-year-old Grade 12 student at Victoria School for the Arts, earlier asked trustees to let students do what they think is right. She pointed to research suggesting humans have about a decade remaining to prevent irreversible climate change.

She wants action, not more “empty words” from leaders, she said.

It’s children who will live with the “messes” adults make now, Stirling said.

“In the face of the existential threat of climate change, the most meaningful thing we can do for our young people is to support them in being part of the action to create change,” Stirling said. “It is vitally important that we hear the voices of youth on this issue, because they are the ones who will have to live with it.”