Climate change: from words to practical steps

The project addresses the gap between public awareness of climate change and the implementation of systematic, practical measures at the local level. Although information about climate change is widely available, this awareness does not always translate into concrete action in schools, communities, and municipalities. Schools and local governments often lack the capacities, expert support, and examples of good practice needed to introduce climate adaptation measures and reduce their carbon footprint. These challenges are accompanied by declining public trust in institutions and limited civic participation among young people. The project responds by connecting schools, municipalities, scientists, media, and local communities to strengthen active citizenship, environmental responsibility, and cooperation in environmental protection. It builds on the established Eco-Schools methodology, which supports schools in introducing systematic and measurable improvements in their operations, including reductions in energy and water consumption and the development of community initiatives. The project also addresses the need for reliable communication about climate change and for accessible, practical solutions that can be understood and implemented by the wider public.

The project aims to strengthen the ability of schools, young people, municipalities, and the wider public to respond actively to climate change through education, practical environmental measures, and the dissemination of reliable information. It will combine educational, community-based, and media activities to connect scientific knowledge with practical solutions. Planned activities include seven thematic webinars, four regional seminars, two multi-day training courses for Eco-Schools students, a networking event, expert field trips, and an online conference focused on climate adaptation and environmental protection. Participating schools will carry out environmental audits using the Eco-Schools methodology and establish measurable objectives for reducing their carbon footprint and implementing adaptation measures. The project will also deliver an information and media campaign comprising three podcasts, a social media campaign, expert articles, and an original book of interviews with scientists and public figures from Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Norway. Through these activities, the project will strengthen cooperation between schools and municipalities, encourage young people's participation in community life, and promote active citizenship and practical environmental responsibility.

The project is expected to generate measurable improvements in climate education, environmental protection, and active citizenship. By 2028, at least 200 teachers and 40 students participating in the Eco-Schools programme will receive training. At least 75% of participating schools are expected to implement at least one climate adaptation measure and one carbon footprint reduction measure, such as reducing energy and water consumption, minimising waste, supporting biodiversity, or introducing responsible purchasing practices. The project will strengthen schools' professional capacities to plan, implement, and evaluate environmental measures systematically. Young people will develop knowledge, peer education skills, and motivation to engage actively in their communities, while municipalities will gain practical examples of cooperation with schools and locally applicable climate measures. The project will also increase public awareness of climate change and practical environmental solutions through its communication activities. Expected communication results include at least 3,500 social media interactions, 3,000 views or reads of project outputs, and 500 podcast listens. In the longer term, the project will strengthen cooperation among schools, scientists, media, and municipalities and support the development of communities capable of responding to climate challenges in an active, responsible, and sustainable manner. Project outputs will continue to be used and developed within the Eco-Schools programme and shared with other schools and communities across Slovakia.