Climate Education Project

All educational institutions aim to equip their graduates with the skills and knowledge needed for successful and meaningful roles in society. But how does this work when the society that is assumed no longer exists because o increasing climate volatility?

Everything we do matters

This is what the recent, most comprehensive climate report produced by more than 200 volunteer scientists describes. The UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change states that corrective, clean energy measures must take place in this shortening decade, or else we will have little to no influence on subsequent climate events. If we squander this time, the heat trapping gases already present in the atmosphere and those which we currently emit will inevitably cause great harm to the physical, social, economic and political aspects of our society. The quality of our future is being created by what we do now. Everything we do at this moment matters!

Impact of Maine State LD 1902

Educators are on the front line and able to instruct our youth about the climate dangers relevant to their well-being. The significance of Climate Education is emphasized by the recent passage of Maine State LD 1902 which seeks to promote the teaching of climate science through the allocation of 3 million dollars in grants to upgrade Climate Studies. The bill draws heavily upon research  conducted by Penn State University involving 1,500 teachers in 50 states which found the clear need to upgrade Climate Education in order to achieve Climate Literacy.

The answer to the title question posed above is that schools should be teaching all Climate Studies that are relevant to the safety and well-being of their students. Early discussions of educating the young about the climate emergency were skewed toward protecting them from the “bad news” because of its emotional impact. Current discussions favor full-disclosure delivered with sensitivity and accompanied by available psychological support.

Students need to learn the truth

Trying to "protect" young people from the truth of the climate emergency is actually the way by which we ensure the most harm. The students' understanding, involvement, and activism are the best antidote to depression as well as environmental collapse. Shielding young people from the truth actually serves to shield adults from the reality of how we have failed to prepare and protect our children and all other species. Our best hope and theirs is to tell as much truth as we can and help direct them to the most effective use of their power for change. 

Get involved in the Connection Project

Exactly how this can be best accomplished will be one of many topics to be addressed by the Educators Group comprised of teachers, librarians, parents, tutors, mentors, et al. This sector is one of several which make up CAN’s Connection Project that aims to bring climate matters to the attention of the community and to encourage greater engagement.