man sitting at table in front of microphone
Policymakers

A Practical Policy Framework for Climate Literacy

The Seal of Climate Literacy helps states recognize student achievement, strengthen workforce readiness, and integrate climate learning into existing education systems.

Colorado Model Legislation
Impact

Why the Seal Matters to States

The Seal of Climate Literacy is a practical, future-focused policy tool that helps states meet multiple priorities at once—strengthening education outcomes, preparing a skilled workforce, and supporting climate and economic resilience. Designed to integrate seamlessly into existing systems, the Seal recognizes student achievement without creating new mandates or burdens for schools.

  • Educational Alignment

    Builds on existing courses, career-technical pathways, and graduation requirements.

  • Workforce Readiness

    Prepares students for rapidly growing clean energy and sustainability careers.

  • Student Engagement

    Transforms climate concern into real-world learning and community action.

  • Flexible Implementation

    Voluntary participation allows districts to adopt the Seal in ways that reflect local priorities.

Projected student growth chart: bar chart with exponential growth between 2025 and 2030
What’s Possible

Policy Unlocks Scale

When states formally adopt the Seal of Climate Literacy, student participation grows rapidly—without new mandates or major system changes.

In Colorado’s first full year following legislative passage, more than 420 students earned the Seal, representing both rural and urban districts. That early momentum shows what’s possible when recognition is embedded into state policy and local districts opt in.

By 2030, policy adoption across just a handful of states could support over 15,000 students annually—and more than 30,000 students cumulatively—earning the Seal of Climate Literacy.

  • 16
    Students
    2024 Actual
  • 420
    Students
    2025 Actual
  • 1,150
    Students
    Projected in 2026
  • 15,000+
    Students
    Projected in 2030
aerial view of winding river through green field
Economic Opportunity

Green Job Growth

The green economy is rapidly expanding, with demand for climate-literate employees across sectors. States that implement the Seal are directly preparing students for these high-demand careers, helping to bridge talent gaps while supporting state economic growth.

  • 6.4%
     
    Of all new U.S. job were in clean energy in 2023.
  • 2.8%
     
    Clean energy employment in 2024. Faster than overall economy.
  • 2.2
    million jobs
    Are in construction and manufacturing building clean energy systems

Source: (E2, Clean Jobs America 2024)

A Flexible Policy Model

The Seal of Climate Literacy is designed to be simple for states to adopt and easy for districts to implement.

School districts choose whether to offer the Seal and how to structure local implementation. Resources and support may be available to school districts through implementation partners such as state agencies or non-profit organizations.

The Seal leverages existing courses, project-based learning, and graduation recognition systems, minimizing the need for new funding or administrative structures.

States can adopt the Seal through legislation, Department of Education rulemaking, or state board approval. Each state can tailor the program to align with its own education framework.

students in auditorium looking toward front
Policy Timeline

A Clear Path to Implementation

From policy initiation to student recognition, the Seal provides a clear, step-by-step path for states and districts to implement climate literacy as a priority in high schools.

  • 01

    Policy Initiated

    Stakeholders identify need for climate literacy recognition.

  • 02

    Legislation or Regulation Introduced

    Optional state legislation or Department of Education adoption.

  • 03

    Policy Passed / Approved

    Seal is formally codified at the state level.

  • 04

    District Adoption

    Local Education Agency (LEA) and districts opt in, map courses, plan student projects.

  • 05

    First Students Earn the Seal

    Recognition conferred on diploma and transcript.

  • 06

    Evaluation & Scaling

    Lessons learned inform other districts and states.

This is a carousel featuring selected testimonials. Navigate using the buttons.

  • Chris Hansen headshot

    At La Plata Electric, I see every day how urgently we need a workforce that understands both the science and the economics of our changing energy landscape. The Seal of Climate Literacy gives students that foundation by connecting classroom learning to real career opportunities. Colorado led the way, and I’m proud to see states across the country following.

    Chris Hansen
    CEO of LaPlata Electric Association and former Colorado state legislator and bill sponsor for the Seal of Climate Literacy
  • Barbara McLachlan headshot

    Climate literacy gives students hope for their futures — focusing on sustainability and science in careers where they can truly make a difference. They grasp its importance early and then work together to create change.

    Barbara McLachlan
    Former educator and Colorado state legislator and bill sponsor for the Seal of Climate Literacy
  • Eira headshot

    I have always been passionate about climate action, so when I first heard about the Seal of Climate Literacy I was immediately empowered to pursue it as a way of direct action and leadership. I saw it as the perfect bridge to turn my knowledge and experience into a recognized credential that proves I’m ready to tackle the environmental challenges of our time.

    Eira
    Southern Hills Middle School, CO
    (Class of 2031)
Active States

States Advancing the Seal

States across the country are adopting the Seal of Climate Literacy and adapting it to their local education systems.

  • Adopted

    Colorado

    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.

    State Website
  • In Progress

    Minnesota

    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
    State Website
  • Adopted

    Maine

    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
    State Website
  • In Progress

    California

    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
    State Website
  • In Progress

    Hawaiʻi

    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
    State Website
  • In Progress

    New Jersey

    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
View National Map

Policymaker Resources

  • Find Your State Partners

    Confirm the Seal is already offered in your state on the National Map. Connect with local stakeholders and access tailored resources for your state.

    View National Map

  • Bring the Seal to Your State

    Not offered in your state yet? Connect with us to receive guidance, policy briefs, and tailored support to advance the Seal in your state.

    Request a Briefing