Earth Day 2026: Our Power, Our Planet

Every year on 22nd April, Earth Day gives schools a powerful opportunity to inspire students to think about the world around them and the role they can play in protecting it. This year’s theme, Our Power, Our Planet, puts the spotlight firmly on renewable energy and the choices we can make today to build a cleaner, fairer future.

For teachers, Earth Day is more than just a date in the calendar. It is a chance to spark curiosity, encourage meaningful discussion, and help students understand how environmental action connects to their own lives. Whether you are planning a whole-school assembly, a classroom discussion, or a cross-curricular project, Earth Day offers the perfect moment to bring sustainability to life.

Why renewable energy matters

Renewable energy is one of the most important tools we have in tackling climate change. Unlike fossil fuels, renewable sources such as solar, wind and hydro power do not run out and produce far fewer harmful emissions. They also help create healthier communities, cleaner air and more secure energy systems.

For young people, learning about renewable energy is about more than understanding science. It is about recognising that change is possible. Students are growing up in a world where climate issues affect their future, so helping them explore solutions can build both knowledge and optimism.

This year’s Earth Day theme reminds us that real power does not just come from energy sources. It also comes from people. Schools, teachers and students all have a part to play in shaping a more sustainable planet.

Bringing Earth Day into school

Earth Day activities can be simple, engaging and impactful. A short assembly can introduce the theme and explain how renewable energy works in everyday life. Classroom lessons can explore where electricity comes from, how energy choices affect the planet, and what local communities are doing to become greener.

Teachers can also encourage students to think practically. Small actions such as switching off unused lights, walking to school, or learning about solar panels and wind farms can help make the topic feel real and relevant.

Linking Earth Day to subjects such as science, geography, PSHE and citizenship can help students see how sustainability connects across the curriculum.

Explore our Earth Day resources

To help schools make the most of Earth Day, we have created a range of ready-to-use resources designed to save teachers time and support meaningful learning.

Our Earth Day collection includes:

• Assembly presentations to introduce the theme and start school-wide conversations
• Short videos that explain renewable energy in a clear and engaging way
• Factsheets with key information and discussion prompts
• Student activities to encourage reflection and action

These resources are designed to be flexible, so they can be used in assemblies, lessons or enrichment activities.