Free Earth Day lessons

Download our free teaching resources to help student understand today's environmental challenges, think critically about climate issues and explore practical solutions for the future.

In an era of geopolitical tension, climate misinformation and increasing pressure on the planet's natural systems, young people need the tools to make sense of complex environmental issues.

Earth Day, first celebrated on April 22nd 1970, recognises the achievements of the environmental movement and promotes the protection of Earth's natural resources. Each year, Earth Day highlights a global theme – often focusing on areas such as renewable energy, biodiversity or environmental justice.

What progress has been made to support climate action? And how can young people contribute to a positive future for planet Earth?

Ready-to-teach lessons about Earth Day

Our lessons save you time, so you can focus on the teaching.

Collage of pages from our Earth Day resources

Each lesson contains

  • Clear, ready-to-use teacher instructions
  • An accessible, colourful PowerPoint that's clear and student-friendly
  • Printable, interactive classroom resources with presentation guidance
  • Key terms and definitions to break down new or challenging vocabulary
  • Icon sharing opinions and oracy

    Oracy-focused activities supporting discussion, debate and listening

  • Icon globe

    Bitesized, reliable information about environmental issues

  • Star icon

    Opportunities to develop critical-thinking and communication skills

Content you can trust

Our lessons are produced by experienced teachers, with support from senior editors and fact-checkers at The Economist. That means you can trust our resources to give an accurate and balanced picture for your students to unpick. Learn more.

Resources