Climate change threatens all of humanity. But for children, it is existential. A child born today is likely to live for another 70 or more years, a period in which – in the absence of significant climate action – Europe and Central Asia will experience more heatwaves, wildfires, floods, deteriorating water quality and air pollution. But for society and the economy at large, the consequences of climate change go beyond that. Children’s bodies and brains are far more vulnerable to the effects of climate change than adults. They also threaten children’s physical and mental development long-term – undermining their ability to reach their full potential as productive, problem-solving members of society. And these harms are already happening: across Europe and Central Asia, more than 100 million children are currently experiencing the impacts of climate change. This means the cost of inaction is immense. It also means that taking action now will reap financial rewards — both now, and far into the future. One of the most important ways to tackle this crisis and safeguard the ability of children to contribute to society and the economy, in both the short- and long-term, is through education. Schools themselves must lead the way in terms of protecting children from climate impacts such as pollution, extreme temperatures, wildfires and flooding. But what goes on inside the classroom matters too. To be the climate problem-solvers that we need, both now and in the following decades, children need far more preparation, knowledge and skills. Currently, school systems are falling short of both of these goals – leaving children unprepared for the future we all face.
