Skip to content
student in the class with the teacher

Volunteer to teach the next generation about sustainability

The issue

Educating the next generation of changemakers on sustainability is important. The 2030 deadline for the world to meet the 17 SDGs is fast approaching. And yet, according to UNESCO research, “70% of young people cannot explain climate change, or can only explain its broad principles, or do not know anything about it”.

What can we do about it?

We’re looking for volunteers to deliver a ‘Sustainability Hour’ in schools. This lesson, developed by Project Everyone’s education team, the World’s Largest Lesson, brings sustainability to life for 8–11 year olds – the next generation of changemakers.

The lively interactive lesson includes an overview of the 17 Sustainability Goals and what they mean. There are quick activities to get students problem-solving, with the chance for children to present their ideas to the rest of their class.

The good news is you don’t have to be a teacher or have teaching experience to deliver a ‘Sustainability Hour’ – it’s been designed so that it can be done by anyone. There’s a volunteer toolkit that provides a lesson plan, resources and follow-up materials for teachers. It also gives you all the information you need regarding safeguarding and logistics.

Please note that in addition to teaching the one-hour lesson, Sustainability Hour requires some preparation time. If you’re keen to get involved, the World’s Largest Lesson support team are on hand to offer advice and support.

Similar ways to take action (8 items)

More from Unilever

3D rendering of piles of plastic bottles and packaging lying on the sea bed.

Are we on the brink of a landmark plastics treaty?

Negotiations on a UN treaty to end plastic pollution are entering their fifth and final planned stage next week at INC-5 in South Korea. Read why these talks offer a once-in-a-generation opportunity and what businesses are calling for.

Back to top