Climate action plan – Why you need one and what it includes

Why taking climate action at your school is easier – and more worthwhile – than you think…

- by Will Ewens
- Climate action advisor for Let’s Go Zero and former headteacher

Former headteacher Will Ewens on why a climate action plan is a roadmap toward a healthier, happier, more resilient future…
As an ex-headteacher, I understand how demanding school life is. Similarly, as a climate action advisor with the Let’s Go Zero campaign (supporting schools, colleges and nurseries to be zero carbon by 2030), I also know that schools need to make some changes.
These two facts are not mutually exclusive, so I’m keen to help schools see that taking climate action isn’t a burden, but an investment in wellbeing, school improvement, and long-term savings.
Why do schools need a climate action plan?
A climate action plan is a roadmap toward a healthier, happier, more resilient future. It not only reduces a school’s environmental impact, but also:
- integrates climate education in the curriculum
- supports student engagement
- delivers benefits like cost savings, better wellbeing and biodiversity improvements
Of course, every school will be different, but a climate action plan helps you determine how to make the most impact from where you are.
What actions might it include?
Actions can include:
- installing energy-efficient systems, such as LED lighting, solar panels and heat pumps
- improving procurement practices
- greening shared spaces
- enhancing air quality in schools
These changes improve the physical environment while also boosting morale and learning outcomes.
5 tips for writing a climate action plan
Appoint a sustainability lead This makes sure someone is focused on delivery, has leadership support, and drives the plan forward.
Engage the whole community) Involve pupils, staff, and families. Climate action is a unifying goal that builds motivation and ownership across the school. And it can be great fun for children
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Set measurable goals Define clear targets for areas like energy, waste, and biodiversity. Your local climate action advisor can help, too.
Use available resources Support is out there – from councils, NGOs, businesses, and national schemes. Use our resources to point you to what’s relevant.
Monitor and adapt Track progress, celebrate successes, and revise the plan as needed. For instance, Nailsea School in North Somerset developed a climate action plan, and in just six months, they have:
- appointed a sustainability lead
- installed a building management system
- switched to LED lighting in common areas
- secured grants for biodiversity improvements
- partnered with the LA on active travel
- added a second meat-free day in the canteen
You can do this, too. If you need a little more assistance, the climate action advisor in your area will understand schools and climate – and will guide you through the process.
Will Ewens is a former headteacher, and is currently a climate action advisor for Let’s Go Zero.