Teaching About Climate Change

Why Teach about Climate Change?

A bold and ambitious approach to climate change education needs to start now…if not sooner. 

• Generation of climate activists
• Youth engagement
• Access to information
• Addressing climate anxiety
• Learning about climate science and solutions can address feelings of climate anxiety and support students in feeling agency instead of hopelessness.

What is California doing?

California has joined several other states and countries to require that students receive appropriate climate change topics introduced into multiple subjects beginning in kindergarten. California bill AB 285 states that educators must “include content regarding causes and effects of, and methods to mitigate and adapt to, climate change and requires that appropriate coursework be offered to students no later than the 2024-25 school year.” This legislation applies to schools K-12 and is not limited to teachers of science.

You can also take action to contribute to conversations about climate education legislation too. See how your reps vote and, of course, register yourself to vote.