Why Climate Change Education is Important

We want to live in a world that feels safe for us, our loved ones, and future generations.

A world where all living things can thrive, and humans live in balance with nature.

However, the activities of modern industrialised human societies, and the ways we have been living, have created a planetary imbalance. The planet is warming - faster than it has for tens of thousands of years - because of anthropogenic (human-caused) greenhouse gas emissions trapping more heat in the atmosphere. This is already impacting people and other species. If global warming continues, there are huge risks for people, other species, and future generations.

Aotearoa New Zealand is one of nearly 200 nations/parties that have pledged to take action to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius [1], by reducing emissions. At the same time, we need to prepare for, and adapt to, the impacts of climate change that can no longer be avoided.

Climate transitions are inherently social justice issues. Climate change and environmental harm affects everyone, but some people will be more severely affected than others. Those who are most affected are often the least responsible for creating the problems. A climate and environmental justice approach says that the needs, rights, voices, and aspirations of the most affected people and groups must be centred in how societies respond to, and take action on, climate change and sustainability. [2] [3]

To have a safe and thriving future, we all need to be part of the solution.

Addressing climate change means rethinking how we do things in our homes, schools, communities, and at work. We need to understand how complex natural and human systems work, how they interact, and how to effect system change. We need to develop the knowledge and capabilities to understand our world, and the collective challenges and opportunities ahead.

We need to learn and work together - at work, in our communities and across the education sector.

Change is easier to make when you know why, and you feel supported and empowered to play your part. Climate Change Education is an important step towards creating a safe, thriving, abundant world for us and all living things.

Read more about our Coalition’s position on climate change education.