In the face of escalating climate challenges, the need for comprehensive climate education is more pressing than ever. Recognising this, Professor Anna Davies of Trinity College Dublin has spent the past three years spearheading the Climate Smart project, equipping Irish Transition Year students with the tools to address the "wicked problem" of climate change adaptation.

While global discussions often emphasise emissions reduction, adapting to climate change impacts is an equally vital, yet underexplored, aspect of sustainable policy and action. Through an innovative blend of educational resources, Climate Smart bridges this gap, ensuring young people—the leaders of tomorrow—are equipped to protect both people and the planet.

Led by Professor Davies and Stephan Hügel and funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship and Research Ireland Discover Programme, Climate Smart integrates science-based, interactive resources into classrooms across Ireland.

What’s in the Programme?

  • Workshops & Activities: Engaging exercises designed to deepen understanding of climate science and adaptation.
  • Quizzes: Knowledge checks to reinforce learning.
  • Role Play Game: A standout feature, the Climate Smart Game immerses students in decision-making scenarios set in the year 2045. Players, as mayors, must allocate €10 million annually to implement adaptive strategies against predicted flood risks, all while balancing expert advice, public opinion, and budget constraints.

The game leverages modelled flood data predictions, simulating real-world uncertainties. Each session concludes with tailored feedback, enabling participants to refine their approaches and compare outcomes.

Since its inception, Climate Smart has made a tangible impact:

  • Participants: Over 3,500 students across 79 schools.
  • Teachers: More than 100 educators involved.
  • Local Focus: Place-specific modules for Dublin and Cork highlight real flood risks and historical events, bringing adaptation challenges to life.
  • Language Accessibility: Resources are available in Irish, ensuring inclusivity for all students.

Professor Davies noted, “While the Climate Smart platform was specifically designed to bring climate change ‘home’ to students in Dublin and Cork, the module has been followed by schools from across Ireland and even internationally.”

The programme's success was recently recognised at the International Educational Game Competition in Denmark, where Climate Smart placed runner-up. Additionally, it will be showcased at the #EducationForClimate Day 2024, hosted by the European Commission, highlighting its role as an inspiring educational intervention.

To extend its reach, Climate Smart partnered with An Taisce’s Environmental Education Unit in 2023, bolstering dissemination efforts. An Taisce will continue supporting its rollout until 2025, integrating resources into broader climate education initiatives like the Climate Ambassador Programme.

Climate Smart has opened avenues for greater community engagement:

As the world grapples with the complexities of climate change, initiatives like Climate Smart offer a blueprint for effective, localised education that prepares future leaders for adaptive action. Professor Davies emphasises, “Developing adaptive capacity and capabilities across society is essential. We are delighted to be part of an international movement for education on climate change.”

By fostering informed, proactive mindsets among today’s youth, Climate Smart is not only addressing Ireland’s immediate climate challenges but also paving the way for a more resilient future.