Education and Climate Change: Synthesizing the Evidence to Guide Future Research

• In Event: Schooling in the Anthropocene: Research Perspectives and Policy Priorities

Abstract

Paper 1 synthesizes a broad body of interdisciplinary research and data illustrating the bi-directional relationship between schools and our changing climate. The authors’ goal is to map a research agenda that informs how schools can reduce their environmental impact, build climate resilience, support students and teachers, integrate climate education, and act as local hubs for sustainability.

This research synthesis examines how education and climate change intersect, recognizing schools as both impacted by and integral to addressing environmental challenges. A systems-thinking approach frames schools as part of broader environmental, social, and policy networks, highlighting the need to more fully integrate climate considerations into education policy and practice.

This paper is grounded in inductive reasoning, synthesizing a range of interdisciplinary research studies, policy reports, and publicly available data related to climate change and education. We integrate existing findings to build an understanding of the challenges and opportunities for research in these areas. We also compile quantitative data from multiple sources to visualize and highlight key trends.

The synthesis draws on data from both government agencies and nonprofit organizations. Key government sources include the U.S. Census Bureau, National Center for Education Statistics, Federal Emergency Management Agency, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Environmental Protection Agency, and U.S. Energy Information Administration.

We also incorporate data and insights from nonprofit and research organizations such as the New Buildings Institute, Generation180, World Resources Institute, UndauntedK12, Smithsonian Science Education Center, Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, and the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication. Research findings reveal five broad dimensions where climate change intersects with U.S. public education in urgent and multifaceted ways.

Reducing schools’ environmental impacts: Schools contribute greatly to carbon emissions, with energy use on par with major power plants. Decarbonizing school operations is a critical opportunity for emissions reduction.

Making schools more resilient to environmental pressures: One in four public schools is in high-risk areas for extreme weather, leading to closures that disrupt learning for millions of students annually. Many also face rising infrastructure costs due to climate vulnerabilities.

Supporting students and staff affected by climate change: Millions of students attend schools in unsafe conditions, including those intensified by urban heat islands. Climate-related stress increasingly affects the mental health of both students and educators.

Teaching climate science and preparing students for green careers: Although public support is strong, few teachers feel equipped to teach climate topics. U.S. students lag internationally in environmental science. Expanding technical and vocational pathways can help prepare students for sustainability-focused jobs.

Expanding schools’ roles as community hubs: Schools are well positioned to foster local climate awareness and environmental stewardship, yet this potential remains largely untapped.


Understanding how climate change affects schools is key to shaping policy, improving student outcomes, and building resilient infrastructure, yet the topic remains underexplored. Expanding research in this area will provide essential guidance for educators, policymakers, and communities as they navigate climate challenges and work toward tangible solutions.

Authors

• Matthew A. Kraft, Brown University

• Grace Falken, University of Washington