As sustainability becomes an increasingly vital aspect of our lives, many individuals are eager to deepen their knowledge about how they can contribute positively to the planet. While the 1y4e site serves as a great introduction to various actions you can take to contribute to a more sustainable world, some people may be inspired to take their learning further.

Luckily, there are plenty of free upskilling programs available to help you take your learning and action to the next level. Here are some options to consider:

Free Online Courses:

UN CC:e-Learn: The One UN Climate Change Learning Partnership (UN CC:Learn) offers free online courses and tutorials in three focus areas: circular economy, climate change, and green economy. There are currently courses available in 17 languages, and many of the courses come with a free certificate of completion. One notable course is their “Introduction to Sustainable Finance” course, which teaches how sustainable finance supports sustainable development and how sustainable finance can be implemented in the real world.

Exploring Our Responses to Climate Change Specialization: This free online 3-course specialization program from the University of Colorado Boulder covers the basics of climate change, climate risk, and mitigation and adaptation policies. The course emphasizes the interconnected nature of this problem, including the competing interests that make it a challenge to solve. To assist in knowledge retention and portfolio building, the course also includes several applied learning projects.

Global Warming I: The Science and Modeling of Climate Change by the University of Chicago: This free online course, taught by geophysics professor, researcher, and author David Archer, explains the science of global warming in an accessible way. The course is specifically designed for those without much scientific background, making it suitable for students at any level. If you want to take your learning to the next level, the companion course, “Global Warming II: Create Your Own Models in Python,” teaches basic Python skills by guiding you through building Python models of the Earth system.

Free Trainings:

Run on Climate Trainings and Leadership Development: Run on Climate is a nonprofit working to positively impact local environmental policy by supporting environmentally-conscious candidates for local office, providing policy resources, and offering leadership development opportunities for local organizers. Their trainings cover a variety of topics, from campaigning for local office to grassroots fundraising.

Sunrise Movement New Member Training Series: Sunrise is a movement of young people dedicated to stopping the climate crisis and implementing Green New Deal policies. Their Sunrise New Member Training series is a set of two 3-hour training sessions covering the climate crisis, the Green New Deal, Sunrise, and how you can get involved. In addition, attendees have the opportunity to learn key skills and connect with other young people passionate about climate action.

NOAA Climate Education Program: The Climate Education Program is a NOAA program working with educators to increase climate literacy. The program is a great resource for teachers as well as informal educators, such as community group leaders and managers. For teachers, the program offers a wealth of resources, including standards-based lessons and informational weekly webinars, through their partnership with the Climate Literacy and Energy Awareness Network (CLEAN).

Free Online Communities:

Work on Climate: Work on Climate is a vibrant online community of professionals dedicated to putting in the work to combat climate change. They provide a Slack channel, curated resources, and community events for their global network. If you work in the climate space, are interested in shifting to a climate-focused job, or want to volunteer your time around climate issues, this is a great place to find opportunities, resources, and community.

When choosing the right program for you, consider your time availability, learning preferences, and career and personal goals. Keep in mind that your journey toward a sustainable lifestyle can always start with free online resources and gradually progress to more advanced programs as your interest, skills, and knowledge grow. Regardless of your choice, by taking your learning to the next level, you are further empowering yourself to make a meaningful impact on our planet’s future.