The winning concept, from 10-year-old Khalid, is a Climate Action Vending Machine that rewards recycling with prizes.
Part of the Cartoon Network Climate Champions campaign, the creation has since been transformed into a piece of public art in Liverpool.
It was brought to life in sculpture form by Faith Bebbington, a Liverpool artist who created The Climate Protector using waste materials.
Ms Bebbington said: “I really enjoyed bringing Khalid’s idea to life as a sculpture.
“His creativity and care for the planet inspired every part of the sculpture.
“I wanted The Climate Protector to not only reflect his vision, but also to show how waste can be transformed into something powerful and positive.
“Art has the ability to spark conversation and inspire action—and that’s exactly what Khalid has done with his brilliant idea around tackling climate change.”
The sculpture sits on a hand-crafted Climate Bench made from sustainably sourced Matumi wood by carpenter John Welsh.
Located in Springfield Park, opposite Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, the bench will later be moved to a permanent spot within the hospital grounds.
Dr John Patterson, creative project manager at the Albert Gubay Foundation, said: “When I first came up with the idea for the Climate Bench, I wanted to create something that would get people talking about climate and nature to spark just one idea that could inspire many.
“And when many come together, that’s when the magic really happens.
“Seeing Khalid’s idea brought to life as part of this shared vision is incredibly powerful.”
The unveiling was attended by members of the public and special guests, including Jade Jones, Olympic taekwondo champion, and Lady Anne Dodd.
Ms Jones praised Khalid’s imagination, she said: “It’s incredible to see a young mind like Khalid’s come up with such an innovative idea to tackle climate change.
“This project is a perfect example of how one idea, no matter how small, can make a big difference.
“I’m really proud to be here today to congratulate Khalid and support the next generation of changemakers.”
John Grinnell, chief executive of Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This project, inspired by Khalid and brought to life by Faith and John’s creativity, is a fabulous legacy for Springfield Park.
“We hope that all our children, families and staff are inspired by the creativity, optimism and determination of all young people who want to take positive action for the environment.”
The project was launched under the Cartoon Network Climate Champions campaign, which encourages children to take action against climate change.
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Monika Oomen, vice president of brands, communications and digital content strategy for Kids EMEA at Warner Bros. Discovery, said: “This is proof that when we listen to kids, powerful things can happen.
“Khalid’s idea is a brilliant reminder of how imaginative and impactful young minds can be.
“Who would have thought a vending machine could help save the planet?
“We always aim to give kids a voice and support their way of fighting climate change and it’s rewarding to see the difference they make.”
