Colorado Students Earned Climate Literacy Seals

More than 1,200 students in Colorado completed a new climate literacy program established by state lawmakers.

Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Secondary Education

Bold vector editorial illustration featuring a sapling growing through a geometric prism against mountain silhouettes, symbolizing climate education. — More than 1,200 Colorado students have received a new climate literacy seal following state-mandated academic requirements and community projects. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Since Colorado lawmakers approved a climate literacy seal in 2024, over 1,200 students have earned the recognition. The initiative requires participants to complete two advanced climate courses and an approved community project.

Why it matters

Proponents argue that the program is essential for preparing young people to address the climate crisis. Additionally, the seal helps connect students to emerging opportunities within the green workforce.

The program received less than $20,000 in state funding for its rollout. Students must complete two advanced courses on Earth's climate systems and a project to qualify for the seal.

The players

Lyra Colorado

This organization provides a grant program to assist schools with the costs associated with teacher time and student projects.

The details

Lyra Colorado supports the program by offering grants that help schools cover teacher time and student project costs. The model has gained regional traction, with Maine and California adopting similar climate seal initiatives.

Colorado lawmakers approved the climate literacy seal in 2024.
Maine and California adopted climate seal initiatives by 2026.

Culture Shift

The seal represents a broader cultural shift toward integrating environmental advocacy into secondary education. This move mirrors the adoption of state-level seals for biliteracy, signaling a change in how states prioritize workforce readiness for future challenges.

Students in the 26 participating districts can now gain formal recognition for their environmental coursework and projects. This credential potentially provides an advantage when applying for college or seeking entry-level positions in the green economy.

The takeaway

The program provides a tangible pathway for students to demonstrate expertise in climate systems through community-based work. By formalizing this knowledge, the state is actively positioning its graduates for specialized roles in emerging sustainability sectors.