The 2026 to 2027 Climate Smart Youth Video Competition has just started.
The Climate Smart Video Competition invites middle school and high school students to utilize their creativity to educate their peers, families, local governments, and the broader community about climate action through engaging and informative videos. The competition is organized by Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action (SVYCA), a youth-led nonprofit that empowers teens and young adults to combat climate change now through impactful policy and education initiatives. Check us out below!
Discover SVYCA
You'll base your video content on one of four themes: Climate Justice, Climate Resilience and Adaptation, Transit, or your own original topic!
We offer some resources to help get you started on researching your themes and encourage you to look further.
Start with reliable sources like the Climate Smart San Jose website, environmental organizations, and city government data. Look for local examples, success stories, and real solutions happening in your community.
Explore how other young filmmakers have tackled environmental topics. Check out documentries, TED Talks, and community projects that address climate action in creative and engaging ways.
Record your video following the guidelines and rules provided. Make sure to keep your video within the specified time limit for your category: 2-5 minutes for short videos, and 3-5 minutes for long videos. See the rules below for more information about things like AI policy, format, rubric, or citation.
RulesPlease note: anyone appearing in the video who is not a contestant will need to complete and submit the City's photo/video waiver form (available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese).
Upload your video as a YouTube link (with public access) through the Google Form linked below
(Be prepared to fill out and submit your parental consent form as well, linked below and in the form.)
Winning videos will be displayed at a screening event at City Council Chambers on a Saturday afternoon in January 2027: contestants, parents, friends, environmental groups, City Councilmembers, and others are invited to watch the winning videos, network, and discuss climate action (you're welcome to attend regardless of whether your video is selected as a winning entry).
Check out last year's winning videos!
Please let us know about any other questions or concerns at sjyouthclimateactionteam@gmail.com
- Introduce your chosen theme and why it matters
- Explain the climate challenge in a way that's easy to understand
- Showcase innovative solutions relevant to San Jose
- Include a call to action for viewers
A diverse panel of judges will evaluate submissions based on:
- Classroom presentation materials about climate topics
- Lesson plan suggestions that align with contest themes
- Virtual class visits from environmental professionals