Educating for Change: Transforming Climate Curricula for a Sustainable Future [Issue #11]

In this issue of our newsletter, we explore the rapidly evolving field of climate change education and its essential role in preparing the next generation to confront the challenges of global warming. As the urgency of climate action grows, it is vital to examine the current state of climate education at all levels and identify innovative ways to incorporate climate change into school curricula. We will highlight the importance of experiential learning and hands-on climate science, as well as the growing role of partnerships between schools, governments, and NGOs in enhancing climate literacy. Finally, we’ll share inspiring case studies of successful curriculum transformations that have made a measurable impact on students' understanding and engagement with climate issues.

The current state of climate education across various levels reveals significant gaps. Despite the growing recognition of education's critical role in tackling climate change, many education systems still fail to effectively integrate climate topics. A 2021 analysis of 100 national curricula found that nearly half (47%) did not mention climate change at all. Moreover, only one-third of teachers felt adequately prepared to explain its local effects, and 70% of youth surveyed in 2021 struggled to grasp basic climate principles due to ineffective teaching methods. While most teachers and students acknowledge the reality of climate change, the need for more comprehensive, impactful, and action-oriented climate education has never been more urgent.

At the primary education level, climate change content is often limited to cognitive learning, with little focus on emotional, social, or behavioral aspects. In secondary education, climate change is more integrated into science and social science curricula, though gaps remain, particularly in topics like biodiversity and climate action. Education systems often prioritize knowledge transmission over fostering the behavioral changes needed for climate adaptation and mitigation. Overall, there is a clear need for better curriculum integration, teacher training, and a shift toward action-oriented learning.

Climate change's economic and human costs are enormous, yet progress remains slow due to gaps in information, skills, and knowledge. Education plays a crucial role in addressing these gaps and driving climate action. It has been shown that education is a key predictor of climate-friendly behavior, with an additional year of education increasing climate awareness by 8.6%. Education can also empower individuals with green skills for new jobs and enhance existing skill sets. However, climate change is threatening education outcomes, with school closures and rising temperatures disrupting learning. Governments can harness education to drive climate action by improving foundational and STEM skills, mainstreaming climate education, and building teacher capacity.

Innovative approaches to integrating climate change into school curricula are critical to tackle these issues and are gaining momentum. Many young people are eager to take action on climate change, but many lack the necessary knowledge and skills. In Bangladesh, for instance, while 88% of secondary school students want to help, only 32% can correctly answer basic climate change questions. To address this, climate topics must be woven into core subjects like reading, math, and science, making them relevant and accessible. Several countries are already leading the way in this effort. In 2019, Italy became the first nation to make climate change and sustainable development mandatory in schools, dedicating one hour per week to climate education. Other countries, including the US (New Jersey and Connecticut), France, New Zealand, Cambodia, Argentina, Mexico, and the UK, are also incorporating climate change into their curricula.

Morocco has made notable strides in integrating climate change education into its school curricula, showcasing innovative approaches that empower students to take meaningful action on environmental issues. One of the most impactful initiatives is the "One Student, One Tree, One School, One Forest" project, which has involved over six million students nationwide. This initiative engages students in tree planting, where they learn firsthand about the role of trees in combating climate change—by absorbing carbon dioxide, conserving water, and supporting biodiversity. The project also addresses local climate challenges such as desertification, soil erosion, and water scarcity, instilling a sense of responsibility and a deeper connection to nature. By directly involving students in environmental action, Morocco is helping to foster environmental stewardship at a grassroots level.?

In addition to this, Morocco has embraced extracurricular programs like the Young Reporters for the Environment (YRE) initiative, coordinated by the Foundation for Environmental Education. Through YRE, students are encouraged to use various media, such as writing articles and creating videos, to raise awareness about climate change and local environmental issues. This not only promotes climate action but also equips students with valuable skills such as research, communication, and critical thinking. By empowering students to become environmental advocates, the YRE program cultivates a sense of agency and shows them the power of their voices in driving change.?

Morocco has also integrated the Eco-Schools Program, part of an international initiative led by the Foundation for Environmental Education. This program encourages schools to adopt sustainable practices by incorporating climate-related projects into daily activities. Students engage in real-world environmental challenges, such as recycling, reducing energy consumption, and improving water management. These hands-on projects make sustainability practices more tangible, allowing students to apply what they learn in the classroom to everyday life. The Eco-Schools Program also reinforces key themes like waste reduction, energy conservation, and environmental protection, equipping students with both the practical skills and the values necessary to become leaders in climate action.

Morocco’s approach to climate adaptation underscores an important lesson: adaptation does not happen in a vacuum. Solutions must be locally driven, with communities, particularly youth, taking the lead in shaping responses to climate impacts. Adaptation works best when designed by those who understand the local context, rather than being imposed from afar by distant experts. In this process, education plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills to act.

Experiential learning and hands-on climate education are key to fostering ownership and responsibility among young people. By engaging students in real-world problem-solving, they not only collaborate and learn from each other but also take an active role in shaping climate adaptation strategies. This peer-driven learning cycle enhances the potential for sustained, community-led action. Artur Ayvazov, UNICEF’s Deputy Representative, emphasizes the importance of integrating climate and environmental education into the lives of children. “The climate crisis is a question of children’s rights,” Ayvazov states. “Children’s understanding of the climate and environmental crisis is crucial for their agency and impact in society. Starting with environmental education from the youngest age is essential in responding to the greatest challenge of our time—climate change and environmental degradation.”

Partnerships between schools, governments, and NGOs are crucial for enhancing climate literacy as they create a collaborative approach to tackling climate change. Schools shape future generations by integrating climate education into curricula, while governments ensure these efforts are supported at the national level. NGOs contribute resources and expertise, driving local engagement and providing innovative training programs. Together, these sectors build a comprehensive climate education system that empowers individuals, promotes informed action, and fosters a sustainable future.

Indonesia has built strong partnerships between schools, governments, and NGOs to enhance climate literacy and address the growing climate challenges. A partner in these efforts is the One UN Climate Change Learning Partnership (UN CC:Learn), a collaborative initiative supported by 36 multilateral organizations. Since 2011, UN CC:Learn has worked alongside the Indonesian government, educational institutions, and various NGOs to improve climate education and build national capacity for climate action.

A key focus of Indonesia’s climate education strategy is engaging youth. Schools like Sekolah Bogor Raya, supported by UN CC:Learn, have incorporated climate change courses into their curricula, encouraging students and staff to complete online e-courses on topics such as climate science, renewable energy, and sustainable diets. This collaboration has set a model for other schools in the region, promoting sustainability and raising awareness about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Sekolah Bogor Raya is also leading initiatives to engage other schools in Bogor, Bekasi, Jakarta, and even an Afghan refugee school, expanding the reach of climate education.

In addition, the Youth Leadership Camps for Climate Change (YLCCC), organized by UNESCO, UN CC:Learn, and the Climate Reality Project Indonesia, have been instrumental in empowering young people to become climate advocates. These camps offer hands-on learning experiences, leadership training, and communication skills, encouraging participants to implement climate projects in their communities. Post-camp activities are supported by mentorship, and successful projects are recognized with opportunities for further training and international exchanges.

Recognizing the critical role of educators, Indonesia has also launched initiatives to strengthen the capacity of teachers to teach climate change. Since 2018, over 140 teachers from primary to high school levels have participated in workshops designed to enhance their understanding of climate change and improve their ability to integrate these topics into their lessons. This ensures that future generations are equipped to address the challenges of climate change.

Countries like Indonesia and Morocco are leading the way in transforming climate curricula, demonstrating the powerful role education plays in shaping a sustainable future. By integrating climate change into their school systems, these nations have empowered students with the knowledge and skills to tackle the environmental challenges of our time. These curriculum overhauls do more than teach science—they cultivate a sense of responsibility and agency, inspiring young people to take action in their communities and advocate for sustainable solutions.

As we face the escalating climate crisis, these educational shifts highlight the importance of equipping future generations to drive meaningful change. How is your country adopting climate-focused curricula? We’d love to hear your stories—share your experiences and ideas with us in the comments below or by email. Let’s continue to inspire and learn from one another as we unite for a more sustainable, climate-resilient future.

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