On 1 August 2026, as part of the special tribute to Dr. R.K. Pachauri, Aditya Kumar, POP Initiative Mentor from India, conducted a Climate Change, Global Warming & Climate Action Awareness Workshop at Ira Primary School, Gurugram, engaging students from Classes 7 to 9. Focused on SDG 13: Climate Action, the workshop created a space for young learners to understand climate change not as a distant global challenge, but as an issue connected to their everyday lives and choices.

The session began with an interactive conversation about nature. Students were encouraged to share what they loved most about nature, identify their favourite trees, and reflect on why trees and water are essential for life. Questions such as “Can one child help protect the Earth?” encouraged them to recognise that environmental responsibility does not belong only to governments or organizations. Every individual, regardless of age, can contribute to positive change.

Through simple and relatable examples, students explored climate change, global warming, greenhouse gases, pollution, deforestation, waste generation and excessive consumption of natural resources. The workshop then moved from understanding the problem to identifying solutions. Students discussed practical actions such as planting and protecting trees, conserving water and electricity, reducing plastic and waste, choosing sustainable modes of transportation, and keeping their surroundings clean.

A key part of the workshop was introducing students to the concept of sustainability. Using everyday examples such as chocolates and a piggy bank, students explored the importance of using resources responsibly and leaving enough for future generations. The message was simple: “Take only what you need, and protect the rest for tomorrow.”

The special significance of the workshop was its connection with the life and legacy of Dr. R.K. Pachauri. Students were introduced to his pioneering contribution to climate science, his association with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), and his lifelong commitment to creating a safer and more sustainable planet. His vision of empowering young people as environmental leaders was connected with the students’ own potential to become Climate Champions. They also watched “Remembering Dr. R.K. Pachauri,” creating an opportunity to reflect on his life, work, and enduring environmental legacy.

The workshop extended beyond classroom learning through creative and participatory activities, including chart-making, speeches, and the Tree Friendship Card activity. These activities encouraged teamwork, creativity, confidence, public speaking, and a deeper emotional connection with trees and nature.

The session demonstrated that climate education can begin at a young age and that meaningful climate action can grow from simple everyday choices. More importantly, the students were encouraged to move from awareness to action and from action to inspiration.

The workshop concluded with the spirit of “Learn. Act. Inspire.”—a message that strongly reflects the legacy of Dr. R.K. Pachauri and the belief that small actions, when taken together, can create a big change.