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Lyra
Originators of the Seal of Climate Literacy and architects of its passage in Colorado. Lyra leads state implementation, resource development, and national strategy—grounded in local context and centered on rural and under-resourced communities.
About the Seal of Climate Literacy
Preparing the next generation for a changing world. The Seal of Climate Literacy recognizes high school students who understand climate change and take meaningful action in their communities.
About
What is the Seal?
The Seal of Climate Literacy is a diploma and transcript distinction recognizing high school students who demonstrate climate knowledge, leadership, and community action. Currently established through state-level policy, the Seal connects classroom learning to real-world impact—helping students prepare for college, careers, and leadership in a changing world.
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A Recognized Credential
A formal distinction awarded on a student’s diploma and transcript.
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Climate Knowledge
Students demonstrate understanding of climate science, impacts, and solutions.
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Future-Ready Skills
Prepares students for college, careers, and civic leadership in a changing world.
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Leadership & Action
Students apply their learning through projects and community engagement.
Origin Story
From Colorado to National Impact
Colorado became the first state in the nation to formally recognize climate literacy on a high school diploma—responding to a clear call from students for meaningful, applied climate learning. In 2024, students, educators, and policymakers came together to address uneven access to climate education and recognition, advancing a statewide approach that could elevate student leadership while honoring local context.
With the Seal now established in state law, Colorado districts—rural and urban alike—can voluntarily confer the Seal, making climate leadership visible and valued statewide. Colorado’s success has become a national proof point: when state policy creates a signal that climate literacy matters, students step forward.
National Adoption
Building a Movement
States across the country are coming together around a shared commitment to climate literacy. From coast to coast, we provide the policy frameworks, implementation tools, and peer network needed to make the Seal of Climate Literacy a lasting part of the U.S. high school experience.
Adopted
In Progress
High Potential
California
In Progress
California is building momentum toward statewide adoption through collaboration between leading climate education organizations and policymakers.
- Led by UndauntedK12 and Ten Strands
- Legislation in progress in the 2026 session, introduced through Senate Bill 1048
- Integrates with existing curriculum frameworks
Colorado
Adopted
Colorado became the first state to adopt the Seal of Climate Literacy through legislation in 2024, championed by Lyra and supported by educators, students, and policymakers statewide.
26+ Local Education Providers are conferring the Seal in 2026, with 1200+ students projected to earn the Seal in the Spring of 2026.
Hawaiʻi
In Progress
Hawaiʻi is advancing the Seal through state legislation supported by youth leaders and environmental policymakers.
- Introduced as HB1925 in January 2026
- Named a top priority of the Environmental Caucus
- Backed by the Hawaiʻi State Youth Commission
- Key champions include Hawai’i State Youth Commission, Climate Future Forum, and Mia Nishiguchi—the student State Board of Education Representative
Illinois
High Potential
- Seal of Biliteracy established through legislation in 2013
- Seven Generations Ahead + youth coalition are exploring
Massachusetts
High Potential
- Seal of Biliteracy established through legislation in 2016
- Alliance for New Jersey Environmental Education is exploring
Maryland
High Potential
- Seal of Biliteracy established through legislation in 2016
- EarthDay.org is exploring
Maine
Adopted
Maine introduced the Seal through state education regulation, creating a pathway for districts to recognize student climate leadership.
- Enacted through the Maine Department of Education in March of 2026
- Implementation supported by Maine Environmental Education Association
Minnesota
In Progress
Minnesota is advancing climate literacy through statewide collaboration between educators, state leaders, and community partners. Legislation was introduced in 2026.
- Champions: Minnesota Alliance With Youth and Minnesota Youth Council
New Jersey
In Progress
New Jersey is building statewide support for the Seal through partnerships among educators, students, and environmental education leaders.
- Championed by the Alliance for New Jersey Environmental Education
- Growing coalition of educators, policymakers, and students
- Legislation anticipated in 2026–2027
Nevada
High Potential
- Seal of Biliteracy established through legislation in 2015
- Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada is exploring
Oregon
High Potential
- Seal of Biliteracy established through the State Department of Education in 2016
- Oregon Educators for Climate Education is exploring
Virginia
High Potential
- Seal of Biliteracy established through legislation in 2015; six other Seals established through the State Board of Education
- EarthDay.org is exploring
Wisconsin
High Potential
- Seal of Biliteracy established through the Department of Public Instruction in 2015
- Department of Public Instruction is exploring
State Program Statuses
- california: In Progress — View CA Website
- colorado: Adopted — View CO Website
- hawaii: In Progress — View HI Website
- illinois: High Potential
- massachusetts: High Potential
- maryland: High Potential
- maine: Adopted — View ME Website
- minnesota: In Progress — View MN Website
- new jersey: In Progress
- nevada: High Potential
- oregon: High Potential
- virginia: High Potential
- wisconsin: High Potential
Anchor Partners
Core leaders advancing the Seal of Climate Literacy.
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UndauntedK12
A national policy and advocacy leader in climate education. UndauntedK12 advances the Seal across new states by aligning policy expertise, youth voice, and movement-building strategy.
National Coalition of Partners
Expert leaders supporting state-driven adoption of the Seal of Climate Literacy.
Bring the Seal to Your State or School
Get the tools, guidance, and support you need to advocate for adoption in your state.