Creating a sustainable world relies on the transformative power of education. By equipping students with climate knowledge and fostering a sense of agency, we empower the next generation to drive meaningful change. Take Action Global (TAG) is at the forefront of this movement, proving that education is not just a solution—it’s a catalyst for action.

 In a warming world, the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are increasing, disrupting the education of 40 million children annually, primarily in low- and lower-middle-income countries. Notably, since 2022, over 400 million students globally have experienced school closures due to extreme weather events, underscoring the profound connection between climate change and educational disruption. In the United States, more than 86 percent of teachers and 84 percent of parents support integrating climate change education into school curricula.

Real-World Climate Solutions in Action

TAG’s programs have demonstrated the incredible impact young people can have when given the right knowledge and tools. Through initiatives like the Climate Action Project, students worldwide are learning about climate science and translating their knowledge into tangible solutions. In past projects, students have developed innovative sustainability initiatives, from planting trees to designing clean energy solutions for their communities.

For example, our global efforts to connect schools and cities through tree-planting initiatives, fostering deeper community engagement and environmental stewardship. Or our Build the Change partnership with LEGO Group, where TAG and LEGO Build the Change promote playful learning and creative problem-solving through monthly mini-missions, ensuring young people’s voices are heard and their ideas inspire leaders worldwide. These success stories highlight the power of climate education to drive action beyond the classroom.

Innovation and Grassroots Action

When young people understand climate science and its implications, they don’t just become informed citizens; they become changemakers. Encouraging students to think critically about environmental challenges and develop innovative solutions tailored to their communities’ needs is critical for growing a global network of young leaders committed to sustainability.

Take, for instance, TAG’s commitment to expanding access to climate education by providing a free, six-week online program for teachers and students of Sierra Leone to access resources to deepen their understanding of climate changes. Or consider the on-the-ground efforts at Kenya’s Kakuma Refugee Camp, where TAG’s Climate Action School offers daily learning opportunities through innovative teaching methods, computer science, and global engagement initiatives. This program empowers refugees with education despite the camp’s challenging environment. These grassroots actions, driven by climate education, demonstrate the far-reaching impact students can have when given the opportunity to lead.

A Call to Action

The climate crisis demands urgent, innovative solutions, and education is the key to unlocking them. TAG’s work proves that when we invest in climate education, we invest in a future where young people drive sustainability efforts from the ground up. By integrating climate education into school curricula worldwide, we can nurture the next generation of environmental leaders who will continue to push for a healthier planet.

The question is no longer whether students can make a difference—it’s how we can better support them in doing so. The time to act is now.

“We envision a democratic, dignified and globally engaged Sierra Leone, where poverty is eliminated by educated citizens. EducAid believes in ownership & potential of its students. We provide opportunities for students especially from vulnerable backgrounds. We use innovative methods to foster critical thinking not only on academic but also societal topics, i.e. climate change.”
– Aminata Kargbo, student, Lumley School

The escalating climate crisis necessitates an informed and proactive global citizenry. However, UNESCO reports that only 53% of national education curricula worldwide reference climate change, highlighting a significant gap in environmental education. Virtual classrooms emerge as a powerful solution to bridge this gap, facilitating cross-cultural collaboration and equipping students with the knowledge and skills to address environmental challenges.​

Take Action Global (TAG) is harnessing the power of virtual learning to connect students worldwide, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration. Through these virtual exchanges, students from vastly different environments—like Kenya and California—are sharing experiences and co-creating solutions to address climate challenges such as droughts and flooding.

For instance, students in Kenya, facing prolonged dry seasons and water scarcity, have partnered with students in California, who are also grappling with increasing drought conditions. Together, they have explored water conservation strategies, exchanged ideas on sustainable agriculture, and worked on digital campaigns advocating for climate resilience. This kind of collaboration not only deepens their understanding of local and global climate impacts but also empowers them to take action within their own communities.

“One of the most powerful things about virtual learning is how it opens doors-not just to information, but to people and perspectives around the world. At Pinellas Virtual School, we’ve seen how students light up when they realize they are part of something bigger than themselves. That’s where Take Action Global comes in-they help us turn virtual classrooms into global communities, where learning has real meaning and impact. 

Looking ahead, I believe virtual classrooms will continue to evolve into dynamic spaces that foster connection, creativity, and purpose. It’s not just about logging in to learn-it’s about showing up to lead, to collaborate, and to make a difference. 

This year, for Earth Day, our students are taking part in a local tree planting project right here in our county. It’s a great example of how global learning can inspire local action. Working with Take Action Global aligns perfectly with our values at Pinellas Virtual School. Together, we’re helping students grow into thoughtful, engaged citizens who care deeply about the world and their role in it. That’s the kind of learning that stays with you for life.” 

Mandy Perry, Principal of Pinellas Virtual School

Technology plays a crucial role in making these connections possible. Virtual reality experiences, interactive digital platforms, and video conferencing tools allow students to engage in real-time discussions, conduct joint research, and even design projects together—regardless of geographical boundaries. These tools not only make climate education more accessible but also cultivate a sense of global citizenship among young learners.

By removing traditional barriers to education, virtual classrooms ensure that students from under-resourced areas can access the same learning opportunities as their peers in more developed regions. This democratization of climate education fosters inclusivity and ensures that the next generation of climate leaders represents diverse perspectives and lived experiences.

A Call to Action

The integration of virtual classrooms in climate education is not just an innovative approach but a necessary one. By leveraging technology to connect students worldwide, we can cultivate a generation equipped to tackle the climate crisis collaboratively. Embracing virtual classrooms as a global solution in climate education is a pivotal step toward a sustainable future.​ Learn more about our virtual exchange here.