We’ve worked with leading universities to answer key questions about school climate action.
Let’s Go Zero commissioned the University of York and University College London to undertake two independent research projects exploring climate action in schools.
The studies were commissioned to strengthen the evidence base for decision making across the education sector, providing some of the most detailed insights to date into how schools are responding to climate change and where further support is needed.
The research shows the benefits climate action can deliver for schools, including improved staff and student wellbeing and cost savings, while also identifying barriers to progress. Together, the findings provide a robust foundation to help government, schools, and the wider education sector accelerate progress and overcome common challenges.
In a survey of 377 schools supported by Let’s Go Zero to take climate action:
67% had saved money
89% had seen students adopt healthier habits and behaviour
89% said their environment is now more comfortable and engaging
93% said it’s brought students transferable skills like leadership and teamwork
79% said it’s strengthened their connection with the local community
“This evaluation shows that climate action in schools generates a wide and interconnected set of benefits that extend well beyond emissions reduction. Across case studies and survey data, educational settings report positive impacts for students, staff, organisations, families, nature and local communities.”
‘The Co-Benefits of Climate Action in Schools.’ University College London
Despite these benefits, separate research by the University of York suggests that climate action remains a low priority for many school leaders, largely because it is not embedded in accountability, funding, legislation or leadership training.
This research identifies a need for transparent messaging to school leaders from trusted sources (including those outside the climate sector). It suggests messaging should be grounded in practical examples of successful interventions.
Our research with University College London investigates the varied benefits of school climate action. It explores how these are experienced in different locations and types of school, and by different stakeholders – from pupils to staff and the wider community.
Download the school snapshots – a detailed look at the impact of sustainability work in 10 settings.
Our report Centring people, place and relationships was authored by the University of York. It examines and addresses barriers to engaging school leaders in climate action, with a particular focus on those that feel their school is less able to participate. It is based on in-depth interviews with 32 school leaders across England.
