Press release Archives - Take Action Global https://www.takeactionglobal.org/category/press-release/ Environmental justice through climate education and action Tue, 17 Mar 2026 11:31:17 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 PRESS RELEASE: Take Action Global Collaborates with Apple to Support 2026 Coding for Climate Program https://www.takeactionglobal.org/press-release-take-action-global-collaborates-with-apple-to-support-2026-coding-for-climate-program/ Tue, 17 Mar 2026 06:30:04 +0000 https://www.takeactionglobal.org/?p=7147 Contact: Grace-Anna Douglas Director of Marketing & Communications grace@takeactionglobal.org

Clearwater, Florida, March 16, 2026 — Take Action Global (TAG), a nonprofit organization advancing climate action education through global collaboration and student-led action, today announced a collaboration with Apple to support their 2026 Coding for Climate program.

Through this collaboration, Take Action Global will introduce a new App Design Playbook for educators and students participating in Coding for Climate. The playbook is designed to help classrooms explore environmental challenges through creativity, coding, and solution-driven thinking, empowering students to see themselves as problem solvers in a changing world.

Coding for Climate is a free, global program led by Take Action Global that brings together classrooms from more than 120 countries. Open to students of all ages and subject areas, the program blends climate education with computer science, inviting learners to build foundational digital skills while collaborating across borders to design solutions connected to real-world environmental issues.

The App Design Playbook supports this experience by guiding students through the full design process, from understanding a challenge to imagining and prototyping solutions by following Apple’s four step Challenge Based Learning framework: Engage → Investigate → Act → Document, Reflect, and Share.

Throughout the program, students apply computational thinking, digital literacy, and creative design skills as they develop app concepts using freely available tools, including Keynote and offline student workbooks. The focus remains on exploration along with experimentation, helping students approach climate topics with curiosity, optimism, and a sense of positive agency.

“Coding for Climate reflects our belief that some of the most powerful learning happens through play, creativity, and shared problem-solving,” said TAG Executive Director and Co-Founder, Koen Timmers. “By connecting climate education with computer science and design, students gain practical skills while developing the confidence to engage with global challenges in thoughtful and optimistic ways.”

“With the right tools and resources, young people around the world have the power to achieve anything they put their mind to,” said Alisha Johnson Wilder, Apple’s Senior Director of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives. “We’re proud to support Take Action Global’s Coding for Climate program to help students develop creative solutions to protect the environment in their own communities.”

The 2026 Coding for Climate program launches on March 16th, 2026 and will be open to educators worldwide.

For more information, visit www.coding4climate.org and www.takeactionglobal.org.

]]> PRESS RELEASE: Take Action Global Partners with Walden Crossing School and Break Free to Sponsor Student-Led Tree Planting Project https://www.takeactionglobal.org/press-release-take-action-global-partners-with-walden-crossing-school-and-break-free-to-sponsor-student-led-tree-planting-project/ Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:48:51 +0000 https://www.takeactionglobal.org/?p=7059 Rainier, OR — Take Action Global (TAG) partnered with BreakFree Education earlier this year to launch a new climate education initiative specifically designed for students in juvenile justice facilities. The program, titled “Growing Change”: Our Earth Day Challenge, connects students to the natural world and empowers them to take action on environmental justice issues.

Through a four-part series, the curriculum helps students explore climate justice, reflect on their personal connection to nature, and create tree-planting proposals rooted in community impact. Take Action Global designed a curriculum that is “thoughtfully tailored to meet the needs of our students” and rooted in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The program has already produced impactful results. A student from Walden Crossing School within the Multnomah Education Service District collaborated with her teacher to create a winning proposal to plant trees as a memorial space at Rainier Riverfront Park in Oregon. Take Action Global has sponsored the student’s project, providing $500 to cover the purchase of the tree and any necessary supplies. This initiative is funded in part by a grant from the Longview Foundation.

“This project means the world to our client. I am so happy and grateful to help her carry out this memorial tree and plaque in memory of her best friend. This tree will provide the City, communities, and visitors of Rainier, Oregon a beautiful grove of Quaking Aspen trees at Riverfront Park for years to come.”

Jamison Holtz, Recreational and Vocational Manager, Nexus Family Healing.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with BreakFree Education to ensure that all students, regardless of their circumstances, have the opportunity to engage with climate education and take action. This program goes beyond a simple lesson; it nurtures a sense of agency and belonging by helping students make a tangible, positive impact on their communities.”

Dr. Jennifer Williams, Co-Founder, Take Action Global.

“We are thrilled to partner with Take Action Global to bring climate education to students in juvenile justice facilities. Our Earth Day Challenge gives students the chance to explore their personal connection to nature and create tree-planting proposals for their communities. We’re so proud of the student from Walden Crossing School who won a $500 grant to plant memorial trees at a local park in Oregon, creating a beautiful way to honor her friend while also making a lasting, positive impact on the environment.”

Kaylah Holland, Director of National Practice and Innovation, BreakFree Education.

The event is scheduled for Monday, October 6th, at 10 a.m. at Rainier Riverfront Park. The event will bring together community members, family, friends, and city leaders to plant an Aspen seedling.

About Take Action Global:

Take Action Global (TAG) is an organization dedicated to empowering students and educators to take meaningful action on climate change. Through collaborative projects and innovative educational resources, TAG works to build a global community of climate-conscious individuals ready to drive change.

Take Action Global Partners with Walden Crossing School and
BreakFree to Sponsor Student-Led Tree Planting Project

]]> PRESS RELEASE: BIC and Take Action Global Launch Writing our Future, Together – Empowering 13.5 Million Students Globally to Pledge for the Planet https://www.takeactionglobal.org/bic-and-take-action-global-launch-writing-our-future-together-empowering-13-5-million-students-globally-to-pledge-for-the-planet/ Tue, 05 Aug 2025 14:04:29 +0000 https://www.takeactionglobal.org/?p=7024 Clearwater, FL – August 5, 2025 – BIC, a world leader in stationery, has partnered with Take Action Global (TAG), a leading international education non-profit, to officially launch Writing our Future, Together. This groundbreaking global initiative invites students aged 6 to 18 to engage in creative expression and foundational writing, fostering environmental understanding by developing and sharing personal “Pledges for the Planet.”

Launching today, Writing our Future, Together aims to elevate the global conversation around sustainable development by empowering youth, teachers, parents, and community members to take tangible climate action. The program aligns with BIC’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections, joy, and a view to the future, while extending Take Action Global’s mission of providing climate education for all. The ambitious goal is to engage 150,000 teachers and 13.5 million students from TAG’s extensive network spanning over 180 countries, with special emphasis on high-engagement regions like India, the Netherlands, Australia, Kenya, Pakistan, Philippines, and Jamaica.

The initiative makes it easy for classrooms to get started with engaging lesson plans, hands-on activities, and access to a global community. Classrooms will have the unique opportunity to connect with peers worldwide through a special pen pal experience, exchanging ideas, feedback, and celebrations of their pledges. Teachers can choose their adventure from a library of one-hour lesson plans, including:

  • Nature Speaks: Creative expression giving voice to the natural world.
  • Where We Stand: Connecting identity and place to environmental action.
  • Carried Forward: Honoring traditions and practices passed down through families and cultures.
  • Everyday Earthkeeping: Celebrating small, daily choices that care for the planet.

“At BIC, we believe that education and empowerment are key to driving real sustainability. Our
partnership with Take Action Global helps us elevate young voices around the world and foster
a culture of creativity and care for the planet. This initiative isn’t just about encouraging students
to express themselves, it’s about giving them the tools to help shape a brighter, more inclusive,
and sustainable future. Our ambition to positively impact 250 million children starts by taking
action today.” – Helen Sahi, Group Sustainability Officer, BIC

“Empowering students to take ownership of their environmental future through creativity and collaboration is at the heart of what we do,” said Koen Timmers, Co-Founder of Take Action Global. “Our partnership with BIC amplifies this mission, providing accessible tools and a global platform for young voices to be heard. We are thrilled to see how ‘Writing our Future, Together’ will ignite passion and action across continents, fostering a new generation of environmental stewards.”

The program will run from August to December 2025. To learn more about taking the Pledge for the Planet and how to participate, visit the dedicated website at www.writingourfuturetogether.org. Program information and materials are available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Hindi, French, Dutch, German, and Portuguese, with more translations coming soon.

About Take Action Global

Take Action Global is a leading education non-profit committed to climate education for all. For over five years, TAG has served over 6 million students and educators from 180+ countries through online learning programs and has supported over 2 million tree plantings. Learn more: www.takeactionglobal.org.

About BIC

BIC is a world leader in stationery, lighters, and shavers. For more than 75 years, BIC has honored the tradition of providing high-quality, simple, inventive, and reliable products for everyone, everywhere. Through this partnership, BIC reinforces its commitment to fostering meaningful connections, joy, and simplicity, and building a positive view to the future through sustainable development initiatives. Learn more: www.us.bic.com

About Writing our Future, Together

Writing our Future, Together is a global initiative inviting children and youth of all ages to take a Pledge For The Planet considering local and global indicators through creative expression and writing. Classrooms will share pledges in an online community with opportunities to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas and actions. Learn more: www.writingourfuturetogether.org.

]]> Coding for Climate Returns: Empowering Students to Code for a Sustainable Future https://www.takeactionglobal.org/coding-for-climate-returns-empowering-students-to-code-for-a-sustainable-future/ Mon, 03 Mar 2025 22:27:31 +0000 https://www.takeactionglobal.org/?p=6747 CLEARWATER, FL | March 3, 2025 – Today, Take Action Global (TAG) and EARTHDAY.ORG announced the return of Coding for Climate, a unique program that empowers students to use their coding skills to address the climate crisis. From March 17 to April 27, K-12 teachers and students worldwide will develop innovative tech solutions for a more sustainable future.

“Coding for Climate is more than just learning to code,” says Koen Timmers, Co-Founder of Take Action Global. “It’s about inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards and equipping them with the tools and knowledge to create a positive impact on our planet.”

This free, month-long global collaboration will provide teachers with access to a wealth of resources, including lesson plans, coding challenges, and project ideas. Students will have the opportunity to develop creative solutions to environmental challenges, such as creating apps that track renewable energy usage, designing websites to raise awareness about climate change, or developing data visualizations to communicate environmental data.

The program will conclude with a celebratory C4C Earth Day Live event on April 24th from 8-10am ET, open to all to join as we celebrate teacher and student achievements.

Coding for Climate will begin on March 17th and culminate in a global showcase of student projects.

About Take Action Global

Take Action Global (TAG) is a leading nonprofit organization committed to climate action education for educators and K-12 students. During the past seven years, TAG has served nearly 6 million participants from 170+ countries leveraging partnerships with the UN, NASA, LEGO Group, Deloitte, Ashoka, FHI360, the Jane Goodall Institute, and Ministries of Education. TAG is a co-author of the Climate Literacy Petition on Earth Day 2022 with EARTHDAY.ORG and Fridays for Future. https://www.takeactionglobal.org

]]> Climate Action Education Takes Flight: Thousands Inspired at Global Event, Highlighting Its Critical Role in Tackling the Climate Crisis https://www.takeactionglobal.org/climate-action-education-takes-flight-thousands-inspired-at-global-event-highlighting-its-critical-role-in-tackling-the-climate-crisis/ Mon, 11 Nov 2024 18:52:16 +0000 https://www.takeactionglobal.org/?p=6607 Clearwater, FL – November 12, 2024 – As world leaders gather for COP29 in Baku and the UN and UNESCO reiterate the urgency of climate action, a powerful message of hope and action emerged yesterday from a global group of over 5,300,000 students and educators participating in the Climate Action Project that were celebrated last week on November 7 at Climate Action Day (https://climateactionday.net/).

Take Action Global (TAG) has been working on climate education since 2017 and now has released its first report showing the impact of climate education. In this report, TAG combined data of over 5,300,000 participants in Climate Action Project (www.climateactionproject.org) across over 170 countries, and a unique algorithm which keeps track of the amounts of carbon avoided–which is made available through their free app, EarthProject. The report was showcased during Climate Action Day in the presence of Whoopi Goldberg, Shailene Woodley, President Mary Robinson, astronaut Nicole Stott, and many more.

Why Climate Action Education Matters:

The report shows that Climate education plays an important role to slow down climate change and that the cost is cheaper than other climate mitigation and adaptation technologies. 

  • 5.3 million students across 170+ countries learned about climate change which is the first step in changing mindsets and behavior
  • 610 actions have been taken by changemakers
  • 2,346,695 trees planted by students
  • 65,707,460 kg of carbon reduced through tree plantings 
  • 64,800,960 kg of carbon reduced through using the EarthProject app

Climate education is not limited to classroom walls. 77% of students involved in the survey claimed that they talked to students about what they learned. 74.3% talked to parents and claimed they were able to bring change to lifestyle at home.

This global exchange resonated with students and educators worldwide. As a student in Tunisia shared, “The Climate Action Project has given us the wings to fly from local to global.” An educator also mentioned that “we have a great future ahead with these projects [with Take Action Global].”

Additional data from TAG’s Climate Action Project (CAP) reveals a significant impact on student engagement with environmental issues.

  • After participating in CAP, students demonstrated a 23% increase in using alternative transportation, a 125% increase in joining environmental clubs, and a 186% increase in using the EarthProject App to track their environmental impact (www.earthproject.org).

These findings reinforce the growing consensus that climate action education is not just important, it’s making a real difference.

Global Event Ignites Inspiration:

Climate Action Day, attended by 9,000+ students globally, offered a platform for diverse voices to share their perspectives and inspire action. This year’s event, headlined by acclaimed actress Whoopi Goldberg, underscored the critical role of climate action education in empowering a generation to address the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.

  • Whoopi Goldberg said “It is not easy encouraging students to share their stories & their belief in the power of their ideas. It is really beautiful that you all are coming together & figuring out what we can do; we all play a part.”
  • Poet Awa Ndiaye emphasized the importance of hope and change, urging participants to be “carriers of hope.”
  • Filmmaker Xin Xue highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting the irony of human struggle while creating artificial intelligence.
  • NASA scientists Rick Davis, Ave Kludze, and Christina Cannon highlighted the role of space exploration in understanding and addressing climate change.
  • Astronaut and artist Nicole Stott drew a powerful analogy between the International Space Station and Earth, emphasizing the need for global collaboration.

Key Takeaways from Climate Action Day:

  • The Power of Connection and Communication: President Mary Robinson emphasized the importance of “radical connection and communication” to drive climate action.
  • Indigenous Wisdom and Climate Solutions: Princess Esmeralda of Belgium highlighted the invaluable knowledge held by indigenous communities and the need for knowledge sharing and action.
  • Accurate Climate Communication: Journalists Katherine M. Niemczyk and Jeff Berardelli stressed the importance of accurate and effective climate communication to inform the public and drive change.
  • The Role of Love and Hope: Actress Shailene Woodley emphasized the power of love and hope in addressing climate challenges, highlighting the interconnectedness of all living beings.
  • The Importance of Effective Communication: Climate scientists Priyadarshani Joshi and Vivek Venkatram emphasized the need for new communication techniques to address climate change effectively.

Climate Action Education: A Global Imperative:

Climate Action Day coincides with a growing international focus on climate education.

  • The recent UNEP report emphasizes the critical role of education in addressing the climate crisis.
  • The UN and UNESCO advocate for integrating climate change education into national curriculums.

TAG: Leading the Way in Climate Action Education:

Take Action Global (TAG) (www.takeactionglobal.org) is a pioneering non-profit organization dedicated to empowering young people to become environmental leaders. Through innovative programs like the Climate Action Project (CAP), TAG is the first organization globally to track students’ direct climate impact through the EarthProject App.

To learn more about Take Action Global and the Climate Action Project, please visit:

Climate Action Project: www.climateactionproject.org

]]> Unleash Creativity for Climate Action! Educators Invited to Free LEGO® Build the Change Institutes https://www.takeactionglobal.org/unleash-creativity-for-climate-action-educators-invited-to-free-lego-build-the-change-institutes/ Wed, 09 Oct 2024 08:09:10 +0000 https://www.takeactionglobal.org/?p=6540

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Unleash Creativity for Climate Action! Educators Invited to Free LEGO® Build the Change Institutes


New York, NY (October 7, 2024): Take Action Global (TAG) has partnered with The LEGO Group and is excited to announce open registration for the 2024-2025 LEGO® Build the Change Institutes! This innovative program offers a free, month-long professional development experience for educators working with students in grades 5-8.

Build the Change Institutes empower educators to integrate playful learning with climate action education. Through a combination of online sessions, global collaboration, and hands-on activities, participants will:

  • Develop engaging lessons that use LEGO® bricks to spark creativity and problem-solving around climate challenges.
  • Collaborate with educators from around the world to share best practices and build a supportive community.
  • Gain access to a treasure trove of resources, including lesson plans, design challenges, and digital badges.
  • Earn certification upon completion of the program.

“We believe in the power of play to ignite a passion for learning and inspire action,” said Jennifer Williams, Co-Executive Director of Take Action Global. “The LEGO® Build the Change Institutes equip educators with the tools and resources they need to create engaging classroom experiences that empower students to become climate champions.”

Space is limited! Each cohort welcomes only 100 educators. Register today for one of the two upcoming sessions:

  • Cohort 6: Starts November 2024 (Registration Open Now)
  • Cohort 7: Starts January 2025 (Registration Open Now)

Benefits for Participating Educators:

  • Free professional development: Enhance your teaching skills and learn innovative techniques for climate change education.
  • Global Collaboration: Network with educators from diverse backgrounds and share knowledge.
  • Flexible learning: Complete the program at your own pace, with dedicated online sessions and resources.
  • Become a certified LEGO® Build the Change Educator: Join a vibrant community of climate change champions.

Creativity for a Greener Future

In the LEGO Build the Change program, students explore real-world environmental challenges and design innovative solutions. From cleaning up oceans to creating sustainable transportation and harnessing renewable energy, their creativity knows no bounds! Watch as they:
  • Build sustainable schools: Design eco-friendly classrooms and implement energy-saving measures.
  • Capture energy: Explore renewable sources like solar and wind power to create a sustainable future.
  • Design planet-friendly transportation: Invent eco-friendly vehicles and transportation systems.
  • Clean up our oceans: Develop solutions to reduce plastic pollution and protect marine life.

Inspiring Educators Worldwide:

The LEGO Build the Change program has reached an impressive global scale, impacting educators and students in over 170 countries! From the United States to the Netherlands, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Colombia, educators are joining this innovative initiative to foster climate action through playful learning.

A Growing Community:

Since its inception, the program has seen a surge in participation, with nearly 1,000 teachers from grades 5-8 joining six cohorts. This remarkable growth demonstrates the increasing interest in climate education and the power of LEGO® bricks to spark creativity and inspire change.

Ready to unleash the creativity of your students for climate action? Register today for the LEGO® Build the Change Institutes!

For more information and registration visit: https://www.takeactionglobal.org/lego-build-the-change-institutes/

About Take Action Global

Take Action Global (TAG) is a leading non-profit committed to climate action education for all, serving more than 5 million students and 700 educators from 170+ countries. TAG’s partners include international experts and world leaders, WWF, NASA, LEGO, and FHi360. TAG is a member of UNESCO’s International Task Force on Teachers for Education 2030 and Greening Education Partnership. In 2023, the World Economic Forum designated TAG’s Climate Action Project as an Education 4.0 Lighthouse, one of 16 innovative public-private collaborations reimagining the childhood learning experience. www.takeactionglobal.org.


]]> TAG Press Release Stevens 2024 Grantee Announcement https://www.takeactionglobal.org/tag-press-release-stevens-2024-grantee-announcement-w-school-list/ Tue, 04 Jun 2024 20:41:20 +0000 https://www.takeactionglobal.org/?p=6170

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TAG Press Release Stevens 2024 Grantee Announcement[w:School List]

TAG Press Release Stevens 2024 Grantee Announcement


Dr. Jennifer Williams, Take Action Global (jennifer@takeactionglobal.org)

Maura Daley, Stevens Initiative (maura.daley@aspeninstitute.org)

Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, U.S. Department of State (ECA-Press@state.gov)



Eight Schools and Districts Receive Scholarships to Connect Students Through Virtual Exchange and Climate Action

A grant from the J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative will enable Taking Climate Action Together to prepare young people in the United States, Middle East, and North Africa for the future through a unique global learning experience. 

Clearwater, FL, June 11, 2024 –– Take Action Global is pleased to celebrate the schools and districts receiving scholarships to run virtual exchange programs that connect their students to peers in the United States and the Middle East and North Africa. Taking Climate Action Together, announced on May 14th, is implemented by Take Action Global and is supported by the J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange Initiative (JCSVEI). JCSVEI is a U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs program administered by the Aspen Institute. 

Take Action Global’s Taking Climate Action Together engages teachers and students in Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and Yemen in a virtual exchange that prepares them to lead their schools and communities in implementing and measuring the impact of student-designed climate projects. Participants will join the Climate Action Schools network of 100 schools in 37 countries that connects educators and students to explore the causes and effects of climate change, develop solutions, and take action together over the course of an academic year. Partner schools and districts include:  

  • Johns Creek High School, Georgia, USA
  • Pinellas Virtual School, Florida, USA
  • Smithtown Central School District, New York, USA
  • Long Island Regional Bilingual Education Network Title III Consortium, New York, USA
  • Cardiff Modern School, Badr City, Egypt
  • Virginia International Private School, UAE
  • Shining Star International School, UAE

Virtual exchange connects young people from around the world for learning and collaboration, immersing them in digital spaces to gain practical skills and build friendships along the way. It is a powerful tool to reimagine what global learning looks like, how it can be conducted, and how many people participate. 

“We’re thrilled to join the J. Christopher Stevens Initiative virtual exchange community and to support these wonderful schools and districts,” said Take Action Global co-founder Dr. Jennifer Williams. “Young people worldwide are witnessing climate change and want to take action. They understand the power of collective action, and there is an urgent need to provide more opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to engage in cross-cultural exchange.”

More Information

Take Action Global (TAG) is a leading nonprofit committed to climate action education, serving more than 4 million students and educators from 160 countries. TAG’s partners include international experts and world leaders, WWF, NASA, LEGO, and FHi360. TAG is a member of UNESCO’s International Task Force on Teachers for Education 2030 and Greening Education Partnership. In 2023, the World Economic Forum designated TAG’s Climate Action Project as an Education 4.0 Lighthouse, one of 16 innovative public-private collaborations reimagining the childhood learning experience. https://www.takeactionglobal.org.

The Stevens Initiative is an international leader in virtual exchange, which brings young people from diverse places together to collaborate and connect through everyday technology. Created in 2015 as a lasting tribute to Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens, the Initiative invests in virtual exchange programs; shares research, resources, and promising practices to improve impact; and advocates for broader adoption. Learn more: https://www.stevensinitiative.org. 

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) builds relations between the people of the United States and the people of other countries through academic, cultural, sports, professional and private exchanges, as well as public-private partnerships and mentoring programs. These exchange programs improve foreign relations and strengthen the national security of the United States, support U.S. international leadership, and provide a broad range of domestic benefits by helping break down barriers that often divide us. Visit eca.state.gov.

The Aspen Institute is a global nonprofit organization committed to realizing a free, just, and equitable society. Founded in 1949, the Institute drives change through dialogue, leadership, and action to help solve the most important challenges facing the United States and the world.  Headquartered in Washington, DC, the Institute has a campus in Aspen, Colorado, and an international network of partners. For more information, visit www.aspeninstitute.org.