Overview

Why Should You Participate in this Program?

• It’s an opportunity for you and your fellow students to work together as a team to learn about climate change, take action, inspire others, and implement a project that will benefit your school and/or community.
• You may be eligible to receive grant funding for your project.
• You, your fellow students, and your school will receive state-wide and national recognition through publicity and media events.
• If your team submits a completed project report, each student will receive a participation certificate.
• Students who make significant contributions to Climate Generation projects are eligible to participate in the California Climate Champions program and further develop their student leadership skills. Read the details about nominating a Climate Champion
• You’ll have access to:

‒ Climate Generation partner organizations who are available to assist with project design, technical approach, and implementation at your school;
‒ Project planning tools; and
‒ Climate change and environmental curriculum and lesson plans.

How Does the Climate Generation Program Work?

Between October 2011 and April 13, 2012, high school classrooms or organizations need to register to participate in the program. This can be done electronically, using the Registration Form or by mail (see mailing address at the bottom of this page). Classrooms or organizations then select an issue in their local school or community and engage in a climate action project related to one or more of the following topic areas:

• Energy Conservation;
• Renewable Energy;
• Water Conservation;
• Transportation;
• School Operations (e.g., purchasing, facilities, landscaping, waste reduction/recycling, etc.); or
• Awareness/Communication.

A few examples of projects or ideas to consider can be found here. The most important thing is to come up with an innovative, creative project that will help your school or community. Your project report, which will document in writing or video, what you’ve done will be reviewed and scored (see Judging Criteria) by environmental and education specialists. The projects that receive the highest scores will be designated as the 2012 winners.

There is no cost to participate and projects must be completed by April 13, 2012 (project reports must be submitted for judging by this date). The winning projects will be announced in May 2012 and awards will be presented (see information on the awards webpage) in late May or early June (depending on the school's calendar). In order to be eligible for an award, your classroom or organization must accept the terms and conditions of the Climate Generation Program and complete a climate change project that benefits your school and/or local community and the environment.

Or print and mail the Registration Form to:

Judy A. Nottoli
Office of the Ombudsman
California Air Resources Board
1001 I Street, P.O. Box 2815
Sacramento, CA 95812