Teaching Tomorrow: How EarthDay.org is Bringing Climate Action to the Classroom

What if every school made climate education a priority? What if students everywhere had the tools to take real action in their communities? In this episode of We the Children, Zach and Clare dive into these big questions with two inspiring guests from EarthDay.org, Dennis Nolasco and Emily Walker.

Dennis and Emily didn’t set out to become climate educators—they were teachers first. But when wildfires darkened their skies and students asked tough questions, they realized something was missing from the classroom: a real understanding of climate change. Now, through EarthDay.org, they’re working to integrate climate education into schools across the world, ensuring that kids today are equipped with the knowledge and skills to shape a greener future.

From the power of small actions—like signing petitions and planting trees—to the systemic changes needed to bring climate education into every subject, Dennis and Emily share their vision for a more informed and engaged generation. Plus, Zach and Clare imagine the ultimate Earth Day celebration, complete with high-speed ziplines, rooftop jungles, and yes—Operation Dolphin Commute.

Highlights

• How climate disasters in their own communities shaped Dennis and Emily’s mission (03:34)
• Why climate education needs to be in every subject, not just science class (09:53)
• How policy changes can bring climate education into every school (12:24)
• What would happen if all single-use plastics disappeared overnight? (18:07)
• What gives Dennis and Emily hope for the future (23:49)

Links & Resources

• Learn more about EarthDay.org and their education initiatives → EarthDay.org
• Explore climate education resources for teachers → Subject to Climate
• Join an Earth Day event or register your own → EarthDay.org/TakeAction
• Sign petitions for stronger environmental policies → EarthDay Petitions

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