Climate literacy, short for climate science literacy, is an understanding of the human impacts on climate and the effects of climate on human systems. Earth Day, celebrated on April 22, 2021, emphasizes enhancing climate literacy through education.
In one of his first acts in the Oval Office, President Joe Biden signed an executive order for the U.S to rejoin the largest international effort to curb global warming, the Paris Agreement. It is a legally binding contract shared by a whopping 196 countries. All have committed to reducing nationally determined carbon emissions rates.
A campaign was initiated by EarthDay.org and climate activists to advance climate literacy. Kathleen Rogers, president of EarthDay.org, said, "Climate literacy and civic skill building are the keys to building a green jobs ready workforce, a green consumer movement--which corporations badly need--and an educated and engaged citizenry."
“Those factors are desperately needed to build broad support for solving climate change and for building a more equitable society,” she added.
Climate Stewardship is on the Rise
According to the Pew Research Center article, “U.S. Public Views on Climate and Energy”, “A majority of U.S. adults say they are taking at least some specific action in their daily lives to protect the environment.” Pew also reports that the bulk of Americans say that climate change should be a top priority for Congress and the president. This marks a 14 percent increase from four years ago!
Considering the divide between democrats and republicans—which reached an all-time high in 2020—this is great news. It shows that the environment is a bipartisan priority despite other political differences.
What We’re Doing About the Environment at S&S At S&S, our deep commitment to the people and communities we serve translates to a passion for the environment and building environmental stewardship through education. Among our upcoming initiatives, we will be participating in Green Up Vermont on May 1, 2021.
In his inaugural address, President Biden said, “A cry for survival comes from the planet itself, a cry that can’t be any more desperate or any more clear now.” S&S has heard the cry and is committed to doing our part. Stay tuned for upcoming community projects and contributions to climate literacy.