Climate Education

To build more sustainable communities, we must first understand the intersecting problems of the climate crisis. SGA engages in climate and sustainability education for a variety of stakeholders, from youth to civic leaders, so everyone is empowered to build a world in which people and the planet are cared for.

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Empowered to Build a Greener Future

Climate education should be a lifelong journey, teaching us how and why to care for our world. Whether it’s climate curriculum in K-12 schools, or webinars, forums, and conferences for leaders and decision-makers, SGA is sharing knowledge that makes us all better climate problem solvers.

K-12 Climate Education

All students should get a robust climate education in school, both in the classroom, and through hands-on action. Instilling both knowledge and sustainable practices in youth enables lifelong leadership in climate action.

School Sustainability Policies

Schools are a foundational part of local sustainability initiatives, and of creating tomorrow’s climate advocates. SGA helps schools develop sustainability policies, often in partnership with students, that provide a pathway to a greener educational experience and a greener community.

Sharing Best Practices

One of the best ways to both teach and inspire others to take climate action is by sharing success stories. SGA facilitates the sharing of best practices through its events and collaborations, making it easier to envision and build a sustainable future.

Community Education and Outreach

SGA is committed to fostering an engaged network ready to lead on climate action. Through our outreach and educational initiatives—including expert webinars, interactive community forums, and collaborative conferences—we provide a clear understanding of climate causes and a deep dive into practical, scalable solutions.

Education for Civic Leaders

Civic leaders and other local decisionmakers are uniquely positioned to make a big environmental impact. SGA provides opportunities, through programs and events, for leaders to learn from experts about pathways to a more sustainable future.

Hands-on Learning

Through zero waste and youth climate advocacy programs, SGA gives students the opportunity to engage in real and impactful sustainability action and develop habits and passions that will last a lifetime.

Knowledge Leads to Action

SGA’s climate and sustainability education work catalyzes collective, local action on impactful solutions. Our multi-faceted and collaborative approach lays the foundation for communities in which people and the planet are cared for.

Programs

It’s Our Future

IOF empowers students to engage in climate activism, both at their schools and on the world stage at the annual UN Climate Summits.

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Zero Waste Schools

ZWS not only helps schools reduce food and plastic waste, it also teaches students lifelong habits to lead more sustainable lives.

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Farm to School

SGA’s Farm to School program provides education on nutrition, local food, and seasonal eating, ensuring children have access to fresh and sustainably grown food, and understand why it’s important.

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Collaborations

Cross Community Climate Collaborative

C4 is an award-winning collaboration of Chicago area suburban communities working together and sharing best practices to drive large-scale climate and sustainability projects.

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GreenTown

GreenTown conferences bring together community stakeholders, civic leaders, students, and passionate citizens to catalyze climate solutions.

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Illinois Food Scrap and Composting Coalition (IFSCC)

IFSCC supports research, programs, education, and policy initiatives related to food scrap composting.

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Climate Education Takes a Village

When we work with other nonprofits and public institutions, we can create impactful, equitable, and community-focused climate education opportunities.

Become an SGA Partner

"It's Our Future has been instrumental in the work that we are doing to build an Illinois Climate Education Hub. In particular, they have supported us in bringing youth voices to the center of what we do, which we both showcased during an informational webinar for the Hub!"

Margaret Wang, Subject to Climate