Engage for Change Series: Ravi Vekaria on empowering climate action through education

Climate change is not just a scientific problem; it’s a human one. But the technical jargon, abstract concepts like carbon emissions, and overwhelming scale of the issue, often leaves people feeling powerless. This confusion creates a barrier to action, making it difficult to see how individual or collective efforts can make a difference. Can education break down these barriers?

Why education is key to climate action

“Education is key to getting people on board with climate action because it breaks down the science, shows the urgency, and empowers us to make smarter choices,” says Ravi. 

“By truly understanding the systemic reasons behind the climate crisis, we can begin to introduce policies, frameworks, and laws that nudge individuals and groups to come together in positive action.” 

“With the right knowledge and skills, we’re better equipped to come up with new solutions, whether that’s through sustainable habits, tech innovations, or community projects,” Ravi adds. 

Strategies for improving climate awareness 

Ravi outlines several strategies that can help build a more climate-aware society, from early education to workplace training. 

‍Climate education in schools: Teaching children about the causes and consequences of climate change, equips them to be informed, responsible citizens who understand their role in protecting the environment. 

Carbon insight tools: Carbon measurement tools, like those offered by Cogo, make carbon emissions tangible, helping individuals understand the environmental impact of their spending in real-time and guiding more sustainable choices.

‍Business initiatives: Companies, like BT and Autotrader offer Carbon Literacy training to their employees. This not only raises awareness within organisations but also creates a more sustainable culture that extends to every aspect of their operations. 

Whether it's through interactive tools, school curriculums, or corporate initiatives, making Carbon Literacy accessible and engaging is crucial to building a sustainable future. 

How businesses can lead the way 

Businesses have a unique opportunity to scale climate education and drive meaningful change. By integrating Carbon Literacy into their sustainability strategies, companies can empower employees to understand and reduce their environmental impact. Ravi explains, “Businesses can start with employee education, and extend this knowledge to customers and stakeholders by transparently communicating the environmental impact of their products and services.” This approach creates a ripple effect, amplifying impact beyond the workplace to other businesses and communities. 

COP: A global platform for climate awareness 

COP events remain a cornerstone for climate awareness and action. While they’ve faced criticism, Ravi highlights their importance: “Ever since the first COP in Berlin in 1995, the profile and importance of the conference have reached increasingly high levels, and it is now the main way that people of all backgrounds globally can recognise the importance of collaborating towards a better future.”

COP events also inspire grassroots movements, youth-led demonstrations, and sector-focused initiatives that help keep the global community engaged and accountable, says Ravi. These movements amplify the message of COP, turning dialogue into tangible results and showing the power of collective action in addressing the climate crisis.

Conclusion

Education is more than a tool for understanding—it’s a catalyst for action. By improving Carbon Literacy, we can empower individuals, businesses, and governments to take meaningful steps toward a sustainable future.

Want to learn more about how knowledge can drive climate action? Explore the tools and strategies discussed in this blog and join us in creating a sustainable future.