More than 1,200 Colorado students have earned a climate ‘seal’: ‘We’re the ones growing up in this world’
A statewide initiative pairs climate-focused coursework with community service – and is spreading to other states
TL;DR
- Colorado's climate literacy seal requires students to complete climate-focused coursework and community service projects.
- The initiative aims to prepare students for the green workforce and provide them with a sense of agency in addressing climate change.
- The model is expanding to other states, with Maine and California adopting similar seals.
- Challenges include school budget constraints and political opposition to climate science.
- Funding for the seal program has been limited, with many students and schools seeking alternative funding sources.
- Students are engaging in diverse projects, from creating ozone gardens to studying sustainable fisheries and lobbying lawmakers.
- Proponents hope the seal will connect students to green career pathways and higher education opportunities.
- Political opposition and attempts to reduce funding for climate research centers pose challenges to the initiative.