Page 150 - EW 1-156 May 2024

Teacher-2-Teacher

Urgent! Integrate alt energy

in K-12 education

TANYA SINGHAL

N THE WAKE OF ESCALATING GREENHOUSE By integrating alternative energy
emissions and climate change impacts, as Planet Earth
inches closer to the critical temperature rise thresh- education into school curricula we must
Iold of 1.5 C above pre-industrial levels, the urgency to raise a generation with an informed
o
pivot towards sustainable practices has never been more
pronounced. An urgent requirement is introduction of al- and proactive mindset towards
ternative energy as a core subject in schools, emphasizing environmental stewardship
not just the importance of sustainability but ingraining it
as a way of life for future generations.
Urgency of climate action. Breach of the 1.5 C threshold Career pathways and skill development. Introducing
o
is not a distant threat but a looming reality, signalling a red alternative energy as a subject in K-12 education will not
alert for humanity’s impact on Earth. This milestone, once only raise awareness, it will also create new career path-
considered a limit to avoid catastrophic climate change, is ways for students. The renewable energy industry is rap-
now a benchmark we are dangerously close to surpassing. idly growing and is poised to become a major employer in
The urgency for immediate and sustained action has be- future decades. By acquiring early exposure to this subject,
come imperative especially for the younger generation, who students can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to
will inherit the consequences of today’s decisions. pursue careers in renewable energy, environmental scienc-
Understanding alternative energy. Alternative energy es and sustainability. The National Education Policy (NEP)
means generating electricity from renewable sources such 2020 advocates equipping students with practical skills and
as solar, wind, hydroelectric, biomass etc. These sources knowledge, to make them more employable. It also aligns
not only offer an endless supply of energy but also pres- with the United Nations’ SDG 8 goal of promoting inclusive,
ent a pathway to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, combat sustainable economic growth, full and productive employ-
global warming, and safeguard the planet. Educating stu- ment, and respectable work for all.
dents about alternative energy sources, their benefits, and Preparing future leaders. Students of today are the
critical role in combating climate change is a necessary first leaders, politicians, and change drivers of tomorrow. It is
step towards a sustainable future. essential that the concept of sustainability is ingrained in
Need for early education in sustainability. Youth is their K-12 years to shape their decisions and actions as they
the springboard of change. Training students early ensures step into roles of influence. By instilling early understand-
that sustainability is embedded in all forms of their lifestyle ing of clean energy and its importance, we can ensure that
and comes naturally to them. By integrating alternative en- the leaders of the future accord top priority to the health
ergy education into school curricula, we can raise a gen- of Planet Earth.
eration with an informed and proactive mindset towards Challenges & opportunities. Integrating alternative en-
environmental stewardship. Such education goes beyond ergy into school curricula is not without its challenges. It re-
textbooks, encouraging students to think critically about quires resources, trained educators, and commitment from
energy consumption, conservation, and the impact of their educational institutions to prioritise sustainability. How-
actions on the health of Planet Earth. ever, benefits far outweigh the costs. Governments, non-
Curriculum integration: a multidisciplinary ap- profit organisations, and private sector corporates should
proach. Inclusion of alternative energy education in the collaborate to provide funding, training, and resources to
curriculum requires adoption of a multidisciplinary ap- support the implementation of alternative energy educa-
proach, integrating STEM (science, technology, engineer- tion in schools.
ing, and mathematics) with social studies, economics, and Conclusion. Introduction of alternative energy as a sub-
ethics. Such a comprehensive framework allows students ject in schools is more than an educational reform; it’s a
to explore the technical mechanics of solar panels, wind necessary step towards securing a sustainable future for
turbines, and hydroelectric power plants, conterminously humankind. By empowering the next generation with the
with study of environmental ethics of energy consumption knowledge and skills to harness alternative energy, we can
and economic principles underpinning a green economy. inspire a generation of innovators and leaders committed
Hands-on projects and experiments can bring these con- to protecting our planet. Now is the time to act. Let’s seize
cepts to life, allowing students to experience the tangible this opportunity to ignite a passion for alternative energy
impact of alternative energy solutions. Through project- in the hearts and minds of young learners, to chart a course
based learning and community initiatives, students can towards a brighter, greener world.
experience the tangible benefits of sustainable practices,
inspiring them to adopt and advocate green solutions to (Tanya Singhal is founder of the Gurgaon-based Mynzo Carbon and
communities and society. SolarArise)

150 EDUCATIONWORLD MAY 2024