Evaluating Climate Solutions
Driving Question: How can we respond to climate change?
There’s no denying the size of the problem, but what can we actually do about it? Explore adaptation and mitigation solutions to understand the role of each in addressing climate change.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the difference between adaptation efforts and mitigation solutions.
- Assess the need for different types of climate solutions.
- Evaluate the efficacy of different climate solutions.
Vocab Terms:
What can we actually do to take on climate change? Explore the differences between adaptation and mitigation solutions to help answer that question.
This activity highlights three examples of climate solutions. For advanced learners, consider extending the activity by inviting them to research and assess the impact of a climate solution of their choice.
Where should we focus our energy when it comes to addressing climate change? Read the article to explore different types of solutions, and then use the activity to decide for yourself the right approach.
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Guiding Questions
This activity involves sorting climate solutions, some of which may be unfamiliar to students. You may want to begin with a brief class overview of each solution rather than having students research them independently.
Adaptation, mitigation...or both? Understanding the different categories of solutions is the first step in effective action.
Who doesn’t love a little debate? Class debates are great for engagement but require preparation. We recommend dedicating one class period to listening to the podcast and gathering evidence, and a second period to conducting the debate.
Are there some climate change solutions that create more problems than they solve? Dive into the controversy that surrounds geoengineering as a potential fix in the podcast, and then use the activity to make an argument based on what you believe.
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Guiding Questions
Not all solutions are equally effective—some will have a far greater impact on improving quality of life and reducing carbon emissions. Which solutions do you think deserve our limited resources?
