The argument can be said that climate change is not really happening. It has been said by some that it is a large money making/brain washing niche with little evidence to support its actual threat to our lives and to earth. Even scientists are disagreeing with each other on this topic too. So, should we be teaching about the need for 'sustainable lifestyles due to climate change' to young children? Is it necessary? Depressing? Untrue? All of these are valid points. But I would like you to consider the following reasons for teaching 'Sustainability' and as educators, our role here in this area.

Reason 1: Well, we really don't know how severely the climate is changing. We can however recognise that it is. We could then do nothing in the event that it isn't true. But in the event that it is (which may occur as far as ten or more years down the track), it may be too late to rectify or slow it down. Prevention is always better than a cure.

Reason 2: The things that we are teaching children are easy, cheap and generally good, ethical ways of living. Who wants an expensive electricity bill when it can be lowered substantially through awareness? Lights can be used less and more efficiently. Suggestions like walking/riding instead of driving, saving water, reducing waste and recycling more, composting, growing vegetables, solar power and efficient heating and cooling have their own benefits in addition to reducing carbon emissions. The fact that they contribute to a sustainable lifestyle is a big plus considering they are sensible and effective practises for anyone's lifestyle. And were perhaps a way of living in the past that was underestimated. So even if Climate Change turned out to be a myth or not as severe as we originally thought, we are living more efficiently. No harm in that!

Reason 3: Why would we not want to care for our environment? Essentially, teaching about climate change is teaching about respect for our earth, the animals, the biodiversity and interdependence among living things and the wonder of science that has been around since the very beginning. An appreciation of this in children is vital for the future of our world. Especially since it is the children and their view that will be highly influential when they are out in the workplace with careers that are yet to be invented in some cases. The foundations for this appreciation are set in their early years of schooling.

Reason 4: The empowerment experienced by children when they are given opportunities to make a difference and create change is truly inspiring. Those skills in communication, creativity, thinking and problem solving and enrolling others for a cause will always be necessary for whatever they undertake in life.

Reason 5: It fits into the Science and Society & Environment curriculum and includes essential learnings.

For examples of units of work and resources for teachers on 'Sustainability & Climate Change' visit http://ourhabitat.info

Michelle L Fulton; Primary Educator, Education Officer for Global Education, Resource Writer
http://www.ourhabitat.info