Education for climate change resilience in rural schools in the Brazilian Amazon
Brazil’s Amapá state is home to one of the most well-preserved parts of the Amazon rainforest. The local economy is primarily based on plant-based extraction activities, such as açaí, Brazil nuts, and rubber. However, various risks from unsustainable economic activities threaten the preservation of the forest and expose the local population to the region’s vulnerabilities to climate change.
This IKI Small Grants project focuses on rural schools, located deep within the Amazon rainforest, and aims to incorporate climate change, forest conservation, and biodiversity into the school curriculum. The project seeks to promote sustainable forest management practices in the region, encourage young people to engage in rural management, and tackle the pressing challenges of climate change. Planned activities include the development of educational materials, teacher training, and the creation of an exchange program among participating schools.
By working closely with local schools and enhancing communication to raise awareness within the broader population, the project aims to have a far-reaching impact and become deeply integrated into the local community.
CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT
IKI Small Grants supports Instituto Terroá in their organisational capacity development through:
- Training and advice for obtaining institutional funding
- Expansion of communications stratgies
- Knowledge management and scientific dissemination events
ABOUT THE ORGANISATION
Instituto Terroá, founded in 2015, promotes sustainable development through participatory processes and integrated solutions. Its main focus areas include “Engaged and Sustainable Territories,” “Fair and Inclusive Economy,” and “Civic Education and Political Innovation.” Terroá serves as a hub for social technologies, connecting communities, governments, companies, and universities to foster the development of more inclusive and sustainable territories.
With projects across various regions of Brazil, Instituto Terroá strengthens community organizations and socio-biodiversity value chains. It also collaborates with schools and youth to promote quality education and support initiatives that have a social and environmental impact. The organization’s goal is to empower communities to become more autonomous, enabling them to make informed decisions on territorial management, ecosystem conservation, and biodiversity promotion. Additionally, the Institute seeks to stimulate inclusive local economies that enhance well-being, while promoting climate resilience and ensuring equity and fundamental rights.