As part of its new Path to Net Zero strategy, the Manitoba government is developing a provincewide climate change education framework, including strengthening curriculum to enhance climate literacy and climate action education in classrooms from kindergarten to Grade 12 students.
“Kids are the first to say climate change is one of the greatest threats facing our province, and it’s their generation that will lead Manitoba into a more sustainable future,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes. “This initiative will teach young people to become environmental stewards and may encourage them to choose a career in the fight against climate change.”
The new framework will identify focus areas to increase climate literacy and strengthen related resources in Manitoba schools, the ministers noted, as building on climate awareness and action to prepare students for the opportunities and challenges of a changing climate is one of the goals outlined in Manitoba’s Path to Net Zero . The Manitoba government released the new strategy in October to guide Manitoba’s collective efforts to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.
The new framework, led by the Manitoba government’s first climate educator-in-residence, will support students, teachers and schools to increase climate literacy and educate students about climate action.
“We are so proud to have hired a Manitoba educator to lead this work. Educating young Manitobans about climate change is one of the most impactful steps we can take to protect our environment for generations to come,” said Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Tracy Schmidt. “This framework will help students understand the science behind climate change and inspire them to take action in their schools, homes and communities.”
As part of its commitment to inclusive climate leadership, the ministers noted the Manitoba government will revive engagement of young Manitobans through the Youth Advisory Council (YAC). Comprising individuals aged 16 to 28, YAC provides direct advice to the environment and climate change minister, ensuring youth perspectives are reflected in provincial climate strategies. The Manitoba government will launch the next intake for new Youth Advisory Council members in the coming weeks. The council plays a key role in shaping initiatives like the climate change education framework by offering insights into how young people learn, engage and take action. By amplifying youth voices, the ministers noted the Manitoba government is fostering a generation of informed environmental stewards ready to lead the province toward a net-zero future.
