Polish coal region to introduce climate awareness in primary school subjects

Silesia, the industrial hub of the country, is aiming to instill a new mindset in the youth by incorporating climate and environmental education into primary school curriculum. This initiative, led by the regional authorities of Silesia, a prominent coal-mining region in Poland, is innovative and praiseworthy. The project, carried out in 16 schools in collaboration with the University of Silesia in Katowice, will integrate climate education into various subjects instead of having a separate course, making the curriculum more relevant to modern times. This approach aims to enhance students’ understanding of environmental issues. For example, students can learn about water usage while doing math calculations, prompting them to think critically and take action. The curriculum will also focus on the elements of water, fire, earth, and air, discussing topics such as droughts, melting glaciers, and climate refugees. The national government is also developing a similar program to be implemented nationwide.