Members of the Education and Children’s Services Committee were today (Tuesday 24 June) updated on the significant strides made by Aberdeen schools in educating young people about Climate Change, Biodiversity and the city’s Net Zero ambitions during the 2024-25 school session.
The report, which detailed a wide range of impactful events and initiatives delivered across schools, as well as the continued efforts of the Youth Climate Change Group, was approved by committee with the exception of recommendation 2.3. The full report can be viewed here.
Councillor Martin Greig, convener, of the Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “Our schools are playing a vital role in preparing young people to meet the challenges of the climate emergency. Through innovative learning and strong partnerships, we are empowering the next generation to lead the way towards a more sustainable and equitable future for Aberdeen and beyond.”
Councillor Jessica Mennie, vice-convener of the Education and Children Services Committee, said: “The enthusiasm and creativity shown by our young people in tackling climate change is truly inspiring. By embedding sustainability into everyday learning and supporting youth-lead initiatives, we are not only educating but also encouraging future leaders to help shape a greener Aberdeen.”
Aberdeen’s schools continue to embrace the Learning for Sustainability (LfS) agenda, integrating sustainable development, biodiversity, climate change, outdoor learning, and global citizenship into the Curriculum for Excellence.
These themes are explored through interdisciplinary learning, project-based learning, science, social studies, and outdoor education, empowering young people to take meaningful action for a better future. Aberdeen now has 11 schools that are recognised as Eco Schools and awarded Green Flag status by Keep Scotland Beautiful.
St Joseph’s RC School won the Scottish Fair Trade ‘In the Bag’ award in recognition of its 10-year commitment to fair and ethical trade, including being the first school in Scotland to commit to supporting and working with communities in India.
The Youth Climate Change Group remains a vital platform for pupil voice and leadership and the committee thanked pupils for their significant efforts in promoting and actioning environmental work in school and citywide.
Committee members agreed that this important area of focused activity should continue and instructed the Chief Officer for Education and Lifelong Learning to support the Youth Climate Change Group to collate and share a yearly summary of the most impactful projects in their schools, through means to be determined by the group, to inspire other young people across the city.
The committee agreed that representatives from the Youth Climate Change Group should be invited to present the Climate Change report to committee in subsequent years.
In partnership with the City Development and Regeneration Service, the Education Service will launch the ABZ Pipeline – a new initiative designed to create curriculum-linked pathways into the renewable sector. This programme will connect learners with employers, offering real-world experiences and helping pupils align their career planning with Aberdeen’s green economy.
Aberdeen for a Fairer World (AFW) continues to play a key role in supporting schools with climate-related activities. Their work includes developing projects with local authorities, ETZ, and employers, identifying skills and employment opportunities, and assessing the impact of in-school activities.
A comprehensive record of school participation during Climate Week North East 2025 will be published in the summer term.
Beyond the classroom, pupils are engaging in film screenings, workshops, barista events, and Fair Trade initiatives – demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and community action. These efforts also contribute to wider achievement and support National Qualifications.
These initiatives also align with the Local Outcome Improvement Plan (LOIP) Stretch Outcome 13, which aims to reduce Aberdeen’s carbon emissions by at least 61% by 2026. As the city works towards Net Zero by 2045, the continued focus on climate education and youth engagement is essential to building a resilient, sustainable future.
The committee instructed the Chief Officer of Education and Lifelong Learning to provide a progress update within one calendar year.