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In its report, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) outlines five ways through which education drives environmental action: (1) investing in students as an investment in the future, (2) fostering life skills through environmental learning beyond the classroom, (3) mobilizing universities for ecosystem restoration, (4) recognizing students as changemakers, and (5) building climate-resilient, future-proof classrooms.
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Environmental challenges are affecting ecosystems, economies, and communities, with 3.2 billion people directly affected by land degradation, while up to US$577 billion in crop production is at risk from pollinator loss (UNEP, 2026). Experts agree that addressing these challenges requires not only technological solutions or policies but also informed, engaged, and capable societies.
The International Day of Education, observed on January 24, emphasizes the importance of education in shaping a sustainable future and achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. From classrooms to communities, and from local initiatives to global movements, UNEP outlines five ways in which education is driving environmental action: (1) investing in students as an investment in the future, (2) fostering life skills through environmental learning beyond the classroom, (3) mobilizing universities for ecosystem restoration, (4) recognizing students as changemakers, and (5) building climate-resilient, future-proof classrooms.
Education fosters environmental literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills from an early age, shaping responsible students who can make sustainable decisions. Initiatives such as #GenerationRestoration Schools, led by the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration in partnership with the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), encourage global schools to engage students in hands-on ecosystem restoration projects. Youth programs like the Tide Turners Plastic Challenge engage youth worldwide through existing networks, such as opportunities that build leadership and life skills while driving youth-led environmental solutions. Universities are transforming their campuses into living laboratories for nature recovery by incorporating ecosystem restoration into teaching, research, operations, and supply chains. Programs like Young Reporters for the Environment (YRE) equip students with skills to investigate issues, report on local challenges, and support initiatives focused on solutions. Climate-resilient schools, including cooling and nature-based solutions introduced in vulnerable regions, help safeguard children’s right to education while improving learning environments.
Reference:
UN Environment Programme (23 January 2026). Five ways in which education is driving environmental action. Retrieved February 16, 2025 from https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/five-ways-which-education-driving-environmental-action
