The Duke of Edinburgh Award has announced a checklist for teenagers that includes trying veganism, learning about climate change and campaigning for a social cause as some of the recommended activities.

After surveying 4,000 people, which included members of the public, education professionals, parents, young people and business leaders, the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award has launched an ‘Experience List’ comprising 25 “essential activities every teenager should do”.

Among the activities aimed to help teenagers develop their characters, inculcate resilience and boost confidence are trying veganism and learning about climate change.

Other activities such as campaigning for a cause, volunteering for a charity and partaking in a digital detox are also included.

The Duke of Edinburgh founded the scheme in 1956 and for the past six decades it has been helping  thousands of young people aged 14 to 25 develop new skills in a “fun and inspirational” way so as to “identify, embrace and enjoy activities that will support them on their journey to adulthood”.

Veganism to build character

Plant-based lifestyles have been soaring in popularity with more and more people consciously choosing to ditch meat for health, ethical and environmental reasons.

Moreover, the trend has been most successful among the younger generation. A survey by comparison website finder.com showed that 15 percent of the participating Millennials followed a pescatarian, vegetarian or vegan diet. The poll also highlighted that 35 percent Generation Z-ers, born in the mid-to-late nineties intended to ditch meat by 2021, compared to 32 percent of Millennials. 

“You might want to switch to a plant-based diet for health reasons or because you’re worried about the environmental impact of meat and dairy,” said a member of the DofE Award organization while shedding light on why veganism made it to the list.

“As a young person, you’ll increasingly make these kinds of decisions about your life – you’re becoming independent and you want to stand up for the things you believe in.”

• Read: Prince William announces a multi-million-pound Environment Prize to tackle climate issues

What do you think of the entries in the Experience list announced by the DofE Award? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Totally Vegan Buzz Team

The Totally Vegan Buzz Team are a gang of extremely entertaining writers who also happen to be vegan. Together, they bring you all the vegan infotainment you need – trends, news, quizzes and more. Leave them a comment! They love it when you guys say hi…

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