The need for a comprehensive climate education in Europe is becoming increasingly urgent. It is essential that all students acquire the knowledge and skills that will help them promote climate justice and well-being, (more…)
Reducing carbon emissions from everyday life is key to decarbonizing society. Despite growing concerns about climate change, people are not engaging in activities that are commensurate with the severity of the threat. One reason may be (more…)
Every year on June 5th, we commemorate World Environment Day – an international day when the planet speaks out about the need to protect nature. But this year, it speaks out more forcefully than ever before, because climate change is (more…)
Do you think you know what contributes most to climate change? Test yourself in a short quiz quizzes on CO2news.sk and see how well you understand carbon footprint, renewables, consumption and climate crisis myths.
It only takes a few minutes — and you might be surprised.
The European Green Deal is "the most effective policy framework worldwide to decarbonise the entire region, achieve zero pollution, protect and restore nature and use resources efficiently" (more…)
Climate change poses significant challenges for society, requiring extensive adaptation measures. The successful implementation of these measures depends on the availability of skilled (more…)
On April 22, 2025, we celebrate the 55th anniversary of Earth Day under the slogan "Our Power, Our Planet" (Our Power, Our PlanetThis year, more than a billion people in 192 countries around the world are participating in the initiatives, with the aim of highlighting the need to transition to renewable energy sources and achieve a threefold increase in clean electricity production by 2030.
🌍 Main message: Our strength, our planet
The theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” emphasizes that each of us has the power to shape the future of the planet. EARTHDAY.ORG calls on individuals, communities, businesses, and governments to join forces to accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and tidal power.
📢 Global actions and protests
From community cleanups and tree plantings to mass protests demanding climate justice, young activists, inspired by the Fridays for Future movement, are organizing climate strikes and discussions to raise awareness about the climate crisis.
⚠️ Climate reality: time is running out
According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the world is on track to warm by 3.2°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100 unless immediate action is taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Such warming would have catastrophic consequences for ecosystems and human societies.
🌱 How you can get involved
📌 Slovakia and Earth Day 2025
Various events are held in Slovakia on the occasion of Earth Day:
Earth Day 2025 is a call to action. Each of us can contribute to protecting our planet – whether through small everyday decisions or by actively engaging in community and global initiatives. Our strength lies in unity and a shared commitment to a sustainable future. Spring
Apprenticeship systems can make a significant contribution to the green transformation by: equip young people and adults with the necessary skills, attitudes and knowledge for a sustainable economy and societyApprenticeship, with its strong on-the-job training component, provides a solid technical foundation, transversal skills and attitudes that are key to the long-term role of vocational education and training (VET) in providing the workforce and skills for the green transition.
Practical steps needed to “green” apprenticeships include:
Practical examples show that The adaptation of apprenticeships in relation to the green transition takes place in the context of regular and structured processes of updating programmes, with social partners, sector representatives and external research experts contributing to the introduction of new apprenticeship programmes or the updating of existing ones. The interest of the apprentices themselves can also initiate the updating of curricula towards sustainability. Spring
Glossary of key terms
This one practical guide on skills anticipation, developed in collaboration with UNESCO-UNEVOC, focuses on skills intelligence and vocational education and training (VET) for the green transition. It highlights (more…)
Climate neutrality refers to a state in which a specific entity – such as a company, city, country or product – achieves a net zero greenhouse gas emissions balance. In other words, a climate-neutral company or product produces only as much greenhouse gases as it can offset or remove. This state is achieved primarily through a combination of emission reductions and offsetting measures that remove emissions already produced from the atmosphere.
How is climate neutrality achieved?
To achieve climate neutrality, the following steps need to be taken:
1. Emissions measurement (carbon footprint analysis) – Determining how much greenhouse gases (especially CO₂) are produced in total from various activities, processes or products.
2. Emission reduction – Implementing measures to minimize greenhouse gas emissions. This includes switching to renewable energy sources, increasing energy efficiency, using low-carbon technologies, reducing waste, and investing in green infrastructure.
3. Emission compensation – If all emissions cannot be completely eliminated, they are balanced through so-called carbon offsets, which are implemented, for example, through tree planting projects, restoration of natural ecosystems, or carbon capture technologies.
The result is a state in which the "carbon balance" is reduced to zero.
Specific examples of climate neutrality:
1. Carbon neutral companies
A climate-neutral business measures, reports and purposefully reduces its greenhouse gas emissions. Companies can become carbon neutral by, for example, improving energy efficiency, switching to renewable energy for their production, reducing emissions from transport or reducing the amount of waste produced. To offset the remaining emissions, companies often purchase carbon credits or invest in projects that will eliminate emissions.
2. Carbon neutral cities
Cities are setting up various strategies and measures to reduce emissions in all their sectors – transport, energy, waste, public infrastructure and private households. Typical measures are the development of zero-emission transport, the promotion of cycling, the energy renovation of buildings and the use of renewable energy sources. The ultimate goal is for the city to reach a state where it can successfully offset the remaining emissions.
3. Climate neutrality of products and services (carbon neutral products)
A climate-neutral product has an overall carbon footprint of zero throughout its entire life cycle. From production, through use, to disposal or recycling of the product, emissions are minimized and the remaining emissions are compensated through certified offset projects. Typical examples are products labeled with carbon neutral certificates (the “carbon neutral” label) – from cosmetics, food to electronics.
The difference between climate neutrality and net zero:
– Climate neutrality ("carbon neutrality") refers to balancing emissions through compensation. It does not always have to mean maximum efforts to completely eliminate emissions, what is important is the final settlement (balance of emissions and offsets).
– Net zero emissions refers to a state where an entity takes the maximum possible steps to radically reduce emissions to a practically absolute minimum, and only compensates for the small remaining portion of emissions through long-term carbon storage.
In other words, “net zero” is generally a more ambitious goal, as it places the emphasis primarily on strict minimization measures.
Why is climate neutrality important?
Achieving climate neutrality is a necessary step in the fight against global warming and the climate crisis. It helps stabilize the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, slow down climate change and limit the negative impacts of climate change on the environment, society and the economy. In the long term, it is the key to a sustainable, ecological and climate-stable future. Spring
Climate change has a major impact on human health through a variety of direct and indirect pathways. The health impacts of climate change can be divided into several main areas: (more…)
Green finance (Green Finance) are financial activities and instruments whose main objective is to support projects and initiatives that contribute to environmental protection, climate change mitigation and sustainable economic growth. This involves financing environmentally oriented activities, such as investments in renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, green infrastructure, ecological transport, sustainable agriculture or nature and biodiversity conservation.
The most commonly used forms of green financing include:
– Green Bonds: Bonds intended exclusively for financing environmentally beneficial projects.
– Green bank loans and credits (Green Loans): Financial products designed to support investments in projects with a positive environmental impact.
– Green funds and investment products: Investment funds and products focused on environmentally, socially and governance (ESG) responsible activities.
– Subsidies and grant instruments: Public funds allocated to support sustainable solutions and environmental projects.
– Direct private investment in environmentally sustainable projects.
What are green investments?
Green investments (Green Investments) represent the specific investment of funds in projects, businesses or technologies that have a positive impact on the environment and contribute to sustainability. The main goal of green investments is to finance projects and initiatives that help solve environmental challenges, such as reducing CO₂ emissions and mitigating climate change.
Typical examples of green investments include:
1. Renewable energy sources – solar, wind, hydro or geothermal energy.
2. Energy efficiency of buildings and technologies – building renovations, energy-saving technologies (e.g. insulation, LED lighting).
3. Low-carbon mobility and transport - electromobility, low-emission public transport and related infrastructure.
4. Green infrastructure – green buildings, sustainable building materials, adaptation measures in cities.
5. Protection of nature, forests and ecosystems – financing nature restoration, afforestation, habitat protection and biodiversity.
6. Sustainable agriculture and food – organic farming, regenerative agriculture, local food production and distribution.
7. Recycling and circular economy – supporting projects that prevent waste, make better use of resources and extend the lifespan of products.
8. Environmental and climate innovations and new technologies – startups and businesses developing carbon capture technologies, carbon-neutral products or solutions supporting resource efficiency.
What is their significance for sustainability and climate change mitigation?
Green finance and investment play a key role in the global effort to transition to an economy that is climate-neutral, environmentally sustainable and resilient to environmental risks. They help:
– Mobilize capital – They support the redirection of resources from environmentally harmful activities towards sustainable solutions.
– Reduce greenhouse gas emissions – By supporting low-emission technologies and renewable energy sources, they significantly reduce their carbon footprint.
– Promote a shift away from fossil energy sources – They accelerate the transformation of the energy sector and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
– Enable adaptation to climate change – Financing adaptation measures helps cities and regions increase resilience to the impacts of climate change.
– Reduce environmental risks (risk management) – Integrating environmental aspects into financial and investment decisions helps identify and reduce long-term risks.
Green finance and investment represent a strategic tool for achieving sustainable goals, mobilizing the necessary capital and resources to support activities leading to environmental improvement and effective fight against climate change. The growing importance of such financial activities increases the pressure on companies, financial institutions and the public sector to participate in the transformation towards a green and sustainable economy. Spring
Green Infrastructure is a set of natural and semi-natural features and solutions that fulfill environmental functions and provide a wide range of ecological, social and economic benefits. These include urban parks, green roofs, rain gardens, but also forests, water bodies, river corridors and wetlands. In urban environments, it often involves the targeted integration of vegetation and natural features into urban infrastructure with the aim of supporting ecological stability, adapting to climate change and improving the quality of life.
Examples of green infrastructure include:
– City parks and forest parks
– Green roofs and building facades
– Rain gardens and rainwater harvesting systems
– Natural wetlands and retention ponds
– Tree rows and alleys
– Green corridors and cycle routes with greenery
– Urban gardens and community gardens
– River floodplains and areas of natural flood management
How does green infrastructure contribute to climate change mitigation?
Green infrastructure does not only fulfill an aesthetic function, it has a significant impact on mitigating the manifestations of climate change and its impacts in several ways:
1. Microclimate regulation:
– Reducing temperatures in cities: Greenery helps eliminate the “Urban Heat Island Effect”, thereby mitigating heat gain in urban areas.
– Increased humidity and better air quality: Trees and other vegetation reduce dust and absorb pollutants.
2. Stormwater management:
– Reducing the risk of flooding: Plants and natural surfaces retain and slow down rainwater and ensure its gradual infiltration into the soil, thereby reducing pressures on sewage systems.
– Water purification: Plants filter pollution and help improve water quality.
3. Carbon sequestration (CO₂ absorption and storage):
– Greenery (especially trees and shrubs) absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and contributes to long-term carbon storage.
4. Promoting biodiversity:
– Green infrastructure provides natural habitats and corridors for wildlife, thereby strengthening the resilience of ecosystems to climate stresses.
5. Adaptation and resilience of cities to climate change:
– Helps cities better adapt to changing climate conditions, such as hot summers, more frequent intense rainfall and other weather extremes.
6. Improving the quality of life and public health:
– Greenery significantly contributes to the confirmed beneficial effects on the physical and mental health of residents, making society more resilient to the negative consequences of climate change.
7. Socio-economic benefits:
– Increasing the attractiveness and value of real estate
– Support for local employment (creation of job opportunities in the development and maintenance of green infrastructure)
Green infrastructure is a key concept in climate policies and sustainable urban development strategies. It not only helps mitigate climate change through carbon emission reduction and microclimate regulation, but also significantly supports the resilience of cities and ecosystems, and brings broad benefits in the areas of the environment, public health, and overall quality of life. Spring
"Greening Curriculum Guidance: Teaching and Learning for Climate Action" is publication UNESCO from 2024, which provides a guide to integrating climate change and sustainability issues into educational programs. (more…)
Product carbon footprint measures the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with a product's life cycle. This includes emissions from every stage of its journey – from raw material extraction and production to transportation, use (more…)
A message "Climate Education Coalition" is a European Union initiative that aims to mobilise the education community to achieve a climate-neutral and sustainable Union. The report provides scientific support for European policy-making.
Key aspects of the report:
The report highlights the importance of a community-based approach and collaboration in addressing climate education challenges and promoting a sustainable future. Spring
Glossary of Key Terms
On the eve of the COP30 international climate conference, Brazilian environmental activist Marina Silva is calling on governments around the world to prioritize climate education in their climate change strategies. According to Silva, climate education is a key tool to help societies better understand the causes and consequences of global warming, while also fostering innovative solutions for a sustainable future.
Why is climate education so important?
Climate education goes beyond traditional educational programs. It is an outreach that helps citizens – from young students to adults – gain a comprehensive understanding of how the climate works, the consequences of air pollution, deforestation and other factors that contribute to climate change. Through education, people learn how they can contribute to reducing emissions and adapting to changing climate conditions, which is essential for the future of the planet.
Integrating climate education into NDCs
Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) are the primary tool through which countries formulate and implement measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Marina Silva emphasizes that if future NDCs include measures in the field of climate education, they can bring long-term benefits. The list of measures should include:
COP30 – an opportunity for change
COP30 is a unique opportunity for governments, scientists and civil society to come together to find solutions to the climate crisis. Marina Silva believes that incorporating climate education into NDCs can be a catalyst for fundamental changes in climate policies. An educated citizenry is better prepared not only for adaptation but also for active participation in decision-making processes, which can lead to a more effective and equitable approach to addressing climate issues.
Integrating climate education into nationally determined contributions is an investment in the future. By educating and enlightening the public, we can ensure that future generations are better equipped to face the challenges of global warming. Marina Silva calls for climate education to be an integral part of every NDC, thereby strengthening society’s resilience to a changing climate. COP30 can be the moment that opens the way to a more sustainable and equitable future for all. Spring
Understanding the complexities of food systems, from production to consumption, enables individuals to make informed decisions that support environmental sustainability and public health. In our growing societies Learning about food systems is increasingly necessary .
The FOOD 2030 Science Education Toolkit is designed to support formal, informal and non-formal educators in exploring our complex food systems. It includes a wide range of topics from planetary health to sustainable eating and new and emerging food technologies.
This toolkit collects a lot of resources originating from EU-funded projects and FOOD 2030 networks, European and national institutions and other reliable organisations Resources are adapted to different learning environments and audiences. Educators can find materials to create interactive lessons, workshops, and activities that engage students of all ages. For example, chefs can use these resources to teach sustainable cooking practices and demonstrate how to prepare meals that are both nutritious and environmentally friendly. They can also introduce concepts such as reducing food waste, choosing local and seasonal ingredients, and understanding food labels. (More on food2030.eu)
Document deals with sustainable consumption of food and other products in the EU and offers various solutions to reduce environmental impact. The document emphasizes that the food system contributes one-third to total greenhouse gas emissionsThe document was created in 2022, so some of the information in it may be outdated.
Key themes and proposals outlined in the document include:
The document provides a comprehensive overview of how we can achieve more sustainable consumption in the EU and offers concrete proposals for improving the food system, production and consumption. Spring
Glossary of key terms
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