CLIMATE change is top of the timetable as young Inverclyde eco warriors explore ways to reduce carbon footprints cross the curriculum.

St Stephen's new carbon ambassadors are working with one of the country's leading eco- entrepreneurs to help take on the challenge of green start-ups.

On trend pair Shannah Robertson and Cassie McKay have drawn up a business plan for environmental friendly beauty products that don't cost the earth.

The project is a partnership with Belville Community Gardens.

Presenting to the class, Cassie McKay said: "We want beauty products that are good for girls' skin - but they shouldn't be too expensive.

"They are going to be 100 per cent organic."

The second year pupils are busy putting action plans in place to create social enterprises that are environmentally friendly, through their carbon ambassador roles.

There are also plans from the pupils Ruan Alexander and Aiden McEwan for charity football matches to generate money for good causes.

Another social enterprise idea from Eilidh Diamond and Zoe Collins is to recycle clothes and collect food donations in school.

Green Aspirations Scotland founder Louise McAllister visited St Stephen's to find out more about the school's work.

She said: "There are some great ideas here and the pupils are so enthusiastic about their roles as carbon ambassadors.

"It is great to see schools like St Stephen's embracing social enterprise."

The businesswoman used her love of the great outdoors to set up a social enterprise and is now hoping others can reap the rewards.

Staff from Belville Community Garden are delivering workshops in schools across Inverclyde to drive home their message of the impact of climate change and food waste.

Environment officer Sally Clough said: "It is great to work with Louise. She is very inspiring.

"The pupils are loving the project and are very engaged in what we are trying to do."