Jaboatão dos Guararapes (PE), associated with ICLEI since 2022, has become an example of how environmental education can transform the future. Through the Climate Justice Ambassadors Training Program, an initiative of ICLEI South America in partnership with the German organization Plant-for-the-Planet, 480 children were trained to act as agents of change in their communities.

The initiative began in November 2023 with the training of principals, supervisors, and educators from participating schools. Between November 27th and December 13th, the program's workshops were held in eight schools within the municipal network, covering different regions of the municipality – from the city center to the countryside, with plantings near lagoons (such as Lagoa do Náutico), in open fields, and within the schools themselves. During the workshops, students participated in playful and practical activities, such as the World Game, public speaking practice, the creation of socio-environmental projects, and the planting of native trees.

In addition to training the new ambassadors, the program officially concluded in 2024, and the students received the book "Tree by Tree – Now We, the Children, Will Save the World," from Plant-for-the-Planet. The publication playfully presents the impact of climate change and encourages children to take a leading role in the fight for a more sustainable future.

On April 9th, 11th, and 12th, 2024, the new Climate Justice Ambassadors solidified their commitment to the environment by planting 480 native seedlings in various locations throughout the municipality, including Barra da Jangada, Villa Natal, and participating schools. These actions demonstrate the children's commitment to ecological restoration and reinforce the role of youth in mitigating climate change.

To learn more about this initiative, access here.

The Climate Justice Ambassador Training Program continues to inspire new generations to care for the environment and actively participate in climate solutions. Cities interested in implementing this initiative can contact us by email. [email protected] For more information.