Senate Education Committee Approves Bill to Prepare Future Workforce for Climate Change

Hansen bill connects high school students with hands-on experience

DENVER, CO – Today the Senate Education Committee passed Senator Chris Hansen’s, D-Denver, bill to establish a Seal of Climate Literacy diploma endorsement.

SB24-014 would prepare high school students to lead in addressing economic and social impacts of climate change while gaining real-world experience. The seal is granted to students who gained skills and knowledge on the impacts of climate change by taking two climate literacy courses and completing an experimental learning project (ELP). For the ELP, schools could connect students with apprenticeships and trades in communities to expand professional opportunities in the green workforce.

“Today’s youth have seen and lived through the effects of climate change firsthand,” said Hansen. “The Seal of Climate Literacy would provide students with tools and education to address climate change in their communities. With this bill, students can get hands-on experience that will prepare them for their future and learn skills that can help support the transition to a low-carbon economy.” 

According to a Working Nation report, green jobs are expected to grow by 10.3 percent over the next five years in Colorado. Additionally, studies show climate education is an effective way to reduce emissions and prepare youth for a warming environment.

The bill now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee. Follow the bill’s progress HERE.