This document deals with climate change and environmental challenges and how to address them through education and eTwinning. It highlights that climate change is an urgent issue, which requires action at all levels of society.

Key points from the document:

• Current situation and consequences of climate change:
  • Climate change is a real problem that affects people, the planet and prosperity across Europe.
  • The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as storms, floods, heat waves and forest fires are increasing.
  • There is loss of biodiversity and species extinction, air and water pollution, and overexploitation of resources.
  • Global warming of 1.5°C will have serious and irreversible consequences.
• European Union solutions and initiatives:
  • The EU has committed to achieving climate neutrality by 2050 through the European Green Deal and the first European Climate Law.
  • The EU has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 40 % by 2030 compared to 1990 levels.
  • Energy efficiency, the use of renewable energy sources and innovative clean technologies are supported.
• The role of education and eTwinning:
  • Education plays a key role in addressing climate change by helping students understand the causes and consequences of climate change.
  • eTwinning provides a platform for teachers to exchange ideas, resources and good practices in climate change education.
  • Climate education should be solution-focused and should give students hope and the determination to act.
  • Participatory teaching methods that encourage critical thinking and allow students to make decisions through collaboration are important.
• Examples of eTwinning projects:
  • The document contains examples of successful eTwinning projects focusing on different aspects of climate change, such as waste reduction, nature conservation, sustainable energy and awareness raising.
  • The projects use a variety of methods and tools, such as online games, e-books, videos, exhibitions, information campaigns and international cooperation.
• The role of young people:
  • Young people play a key role in the fight against climate change and should be actively involved in finding solutions.
  • Education should lead to changes in behavior and attitudes and motivate young people to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle.
• Recommended eTwinning activities:
  • The document offers concrete suggestions for activities that teachers can implement with their students within the eTwinning programme, such as recycling, creating school gardens, building positive environmental habits and exploring different types of pollution.
• Conclusion:
  • Education and eTwinning are important tools to address climate change and prepare young people for a sustainable future.
  • There is a need to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and societal understanding of climate change.
  • Schools, teachers and students have a key role to play in promoting changes in attitudes and actions towards climate change.

Spring