A new website has been launched to help schools teach pupils about sustainable living and the key role that scientists and engineers will play in tackling the challenges of climate change.

The online resource – 3M Worldlywise (3MWorldlywise.co.uk) – has been developed by the diversified technology company 3M, working with the Government-supported organisation STEMNET.

It is designed to boost young interest in studying the STEM subjects of science, technology, engineering and maths from GCSE to A-level and on to university.

Currently only 13 per cent of undergraduates are studying these subjects. And according to the Confederation of British Industry, this shortfall leaves two-thirds of UK businesses with recruitment difficulties.

The new initiative aims to reverse the trend by tapping into young people’s concern for the environment and inspiring them to find out more.

For more information www.3MWorldlywise.co.uk

The launch is being backed by environmental campaigner Dick Strawbridge, the presenter of TV’s Scrapheap Challenge and author of It’s Not Easy Being Green.