Bringing climate education to the forefront

During Cop27 we were warned by the UN chief that the world is “on the highway to hell with our foot still on the accelerator”. After a year of droughts, record breaking heat waves and devastating floods; it was hoped that this Cop would bring about some stringent action points. We are fast approaching a number of key tipping points that make climate chaos inevitable.

At the forefront of this Cop was a new funding arrangement on loss and damage. A fund that will be available for countries most impacted by the devastating impact of climate change. A great step forward but lots still to iron out, not least what the criteria will be and where the money will come from.

For many however, this Cop was one of disappointment. There was a large u-turn on language around fossil fuels. The reference is to "low emission and renewable energy". A loophole that could allow for development of gas resources. Ultimately the will to keep 1.5C alive is still going strong, just a shame that the text put together just isn't enough yet. Fossil fuel advocates were out in full force and no doubt having an influence in the talks.

In the meantime, we have a generation of young people growing up with the threat of climate change hanging over their heads. The decisions and consequences of world leaders over the next year have the potential to make or break our beautiful planet. 

Despite pledges to prioritise climate education, this topic is only on the curriculum in a handful of countries and not in the UK. With both teachers and pupils becoming increasingly frustrated. Teachers are lacking the skills to effectively cover such a diverse and complex topic and pupils are missing out on learning more about the impact climate change will have on their lives. Because, there is no doubt at all that climate change will impact EVERYONE in the future. 

The Climate Education Bill is on its way through parliament which will ensure that matters relating to climate change and sustainability are integrated through the curriculum in primary and secondary schools.  

As schools find budgets getting tighter, who should fund climate education in schools? Schools are at crisis point. Costs are spiralling out of control with half of schools facing significant teacher job cuts. We need the help of corporations, councils and communities to get behind this vitally important topic. To make it a key part of the curriculum and baked into all learning. It takes a village to raise a child: at just £2 a year per child for vibrant and inspiring climate education resources - just imagine the impact you could have.

The next 8 years are critical for our children. They need all the climate facts. They need to be inspired to learn more, take positive planet-saving action and maybe become the future environmental leaders of the future.

If you’re a teacher, why not amplify your climate education through our wonderfully engaging platform. Check out our free Global Goals presentation pack!