The Importance of Networks (Local and Global) in Fostering Environmental Education

Networks are essential in advancing climate education, bringing together individuals, institutions, and organizations to share knowledge, resources, and best practices. At Columbia University’s Climate School, the Earth Networks on Climate Education for Resilient Futures serve as a university-wide initiative that cuts across disciplines, fostering collaboration among researchers, educators, and students to address climate challenges. These networks are formed with a vision to connect expertise, encourage interdisciplinary discussions, and enact meaningful environmental action. They create a platform where diverse voices can engage in dialogue, exchange ideas, and shape innovative solutions to climate issues.

Beyond the local level, global networks play a crucial role in expanding the impact of climate education. Mission 4.7 exemplifies this by bringing together civil society organizations, educators, and policymakers to advance education for sustainable development and global citizenship. Partnerships like UNESCO’s Greening Education Partnership initiative further reinforce the power of international collaboration, ensuring that environmental education is prioritized in formal, informal and non-formal curricula worldwide. This discussion aims to explore how such networks operate, their significance in uniting different stakeholders, and how participants can engage with and strengthen these connections. We invite everyone to share their experiences and networks, fostering a collective commitment to climate action and education.

Participation in these networks are ways to build on your activities during Worldwide Climate and Justice Education Week April 7-13, 2025.

In the morning session, Dannie Dinh and Laurel Zaima-Sheehy, Assistant Director, K12 & Continuing Education, Columbia Climate School, will be sharing about the Climate School's Earth Network and Haein Shin will share about Mission 4.7.

In a separate session at 8 pm New York time, Dr. Radhika Iyengar, Director of Education, Center for Sustainable Development, The Earth Institute, Columbia University, will share about Greening Education Partnership.

Please join us!