They are funding the scheme as part of the wider consultation called the Climate Change Public Engagement Strategy. The project will run alongside a national discussion day and a survey of 12-19 year olds to ask for their views on climate change, the whole exercise will cost tax payers £35,000.

The scheme which starts next month, will be run in partnership with Young Scot, Scotland’s national youth information agency, who will guide three groups of “local youth investigation teams”. The teams will research the impact of a low carbon economy on Scottish communities.

Jacqui McCormack a spokes person for the Scottish Parliament said the government would listen to the youngsters views : “They might visit wind turbines or talk to members of the community, or meet people at the front line of energy and renewable industry, it’s up to them. After that they’ll bring their findings together and give them back to the Government in May 2011, to influence their policy making.”

Gregor Urquhart from Young Scot said: “We’re still at the very early stages of bringing together volunteers. It’s important that young people’s voices are heard, and we’re delighted that the Scottish government has given them this opportunity.”

The specifics of the scheme are yet to be finalised but the schools that will provide the children have already been consulted. Minister for Environment and Climate Change Roseanna Cunningham has agreed to meet with the groups to talk about their activities.