The Tamil Nadu government has taken significant strides in combating climate change through its Climate Education and Cool Roof initiatives. Recently launched across 300 Green Schools, this program aims to weave climate literacy into the fabric of public education.
On January 19, 2026, the initiative was unveiled by key ministers, showcasing Tamil Nadu’s ambition to become a leader in environmental awareness. The goal is to transform schools into hubs of sustainability, preparing students to face the challenges of climate change.
Central to this initiative is the Climate Education Programme. It encourages hands-on experiences, allowing students to learn about climate change and sustainability. The program includes teacher training, nature camps, and a statewide climate quiz called Soozhal Arivom.
One of the exciting aspects of this initiative is the training of 4,000 teachers across all 38 districts. These teachers, known as Climate Ambassadors, will lead climate action efforts in their schools. The inaugural training started with 210 teachers in Salem on January 20, 2026.
Extreme heat in Tamil Nadu poses a real threat to effective learning. In some schools, indoor temperatures can soar to 38-40 degrees Celsius during peak hours. Research shows that learning suffers when temperatures exceed 30-32 degrees Celsius. Recognizing this, the government has included the Cool Roof initiative in its Climate Change Mission Action Plan.
For instance, at the Ambattur Perunthalaivar Kamarajar Government Girls Higher Secondary School, new heat-reflective roof coatings lowered indoor temperatures by 3-4 degrees Celsius, making classrooms much more comfortable. This is vital for keeping learning environments conducive during hot months.
The program also emphasizes expanding its reach. An impact study outlines the journey from 25 pilot schools to the present 300. Schools equipped with rooftop solar panels have cut electricity use by 46%, saving about Rs 226,000 annually. If fully rolled out, this program could significantly reduce electricity consumption across Tamil Nadu’s education and health sectors.
Research released by the United Nations Environment Programme supports the use of cool roofs. These roofs can decrease temperatures by 10-15 degrees Celsius and cut cooling energy demand by up to 80%. Such measures are vital given the rising temperatures due to climate change.
By integrating innovative educational practices with sustainable infrastructure, Tamil Nadu is preparing students to tackle climate challenges effectively. This initiative represents a promising step towards a more resilient future for both schools and the communities they serve.
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