A YOUNG clinical research worker from Basingstoke has been crowned Miss Earth England 2022.

Beth Rice, who lives in Basingstoke town centre, won the prestigious title in Derby last month.

The 27-year-old will now represent England on the global stage in the Philippines later this year, competing alongside 90 countries from around the world for the title of Miss Earth.

Miss Earth is the third largest beauty pageant in the world, followed by Miss Universe and Miss World.

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It is also the largest environmental pageant in the world, which aims to educate against environmental degradation and encourage climate action.

Beth, who won Best in Interview and Best Eco advocacy at the finals, said she is “amazed and excited” to have been chosen.

Basingstoke Gazette: Beth RiceBeth Rice

“I was shocked to win and honoured that I get to represent England,” Beth said.

“At the moment, there's a lot of preparation to do. I'm preparing for the international competition, but also trying to continue my work with the climate scientists. That's my platform. It is about engaging young people through science and trying to promote positive climate action.”

Her advocacy, The Climate Scientist, is working towards educating young people on our climate.

Through her climate workshops, she hopes to educate and inspire young people to protect the planet, but also showcase the importance of science and be a STEM representative to young girls.

Beth added: “I am excited to use my title to have a real impact in the local community and advocate for causes close to my heart. There is so much climate anxiety globally, so one of my goals is to educate and elevate climate anxiety in young people so they feel empowered to tackle such a large global issue”.

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England have never placed higher than Top 16 at Miss Earth but Beth is working to make history.

With her title, she hopes to influence governments to implement more climate education into national curriculums.

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