This program can be booked as a 1.5 hr or 3 hr program, both of which are delivered in-person in the classroom.

For schools 1.5 hrs travel time from Castlegar, this program is only available if it can be offered to additional classes during the same travel period (i.e., if multiple teachers from the same school/nearby schools book the same program).

About the program
During this 90-minute workshop or 3-hour role-play game, students explore meaningful action to address climate change using grounded conversations and an interactive climate simulator En-ROADS. Students use critical thinking skills and cooperate with their classmates to create a scenario where global warming is kept to 1.5C, in alignment with the goals of the Paris Agreement. In the process, they explore co-benefits (what else gets better?), equity considerations, and a better understanding of the complex systems involved in solving the climate crisis.

The resulting experience is hopeful, scientifically-grounded, action-oriented, and eye-opening. Since climate anxiety is prevalent among today’s youth, having the opportunity to discuss solutions and actions during either the En-ROADS workshop or game can help them realize that a positive future is still possible.

The 3-hour game differs from the workshop, in that students take on the roles of various stakeholder groups (for example, conventional energy, clean energy, world leaders, and climate activists) to negotiate a climate safe future using the En-ROADS tool.

Some pre-learning will be provided, along with an optional worksheet to help students follow along. Some changes may occur based on class needs.

About the community educator
After a career as a hydrologist, as well as time as an organic farmer, Laura currently focuses her efforts on climate advocacy and communication. She founded and co-leads the Nelson-West Kootenay chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby, is a BC Regional Organizer for the Community Climate Hub initiative, and is a trained Climate Reality Leader and En-ROADS climate ambassador. This work is driven by the scientific urgency of solving the climate crisis and grave concern for the future of her daughters and other living beings on this beautiful planet.

Laura holds a MSc in Environmental Sciences and BSc in Geology, along with certificates in Renewable Energy Technology, Permaculture Design, and numerous courses in sustainability and climate science and policy.