Amazing Books That Inspire Environmental Responsibility
These environment books focus on different aspects of saving the planet including deforestation, plastic reduction and saving habitats. They explain environmental responsibility in ways for children of different ages to understand.
Environmental Responsibility
More and more it seems like the younger generation will have to live with the consequences of questionable environmental decisions. Though things are changing, it is not happening quickly enough.
I first added this video in 2018, but it is just as relevant today. Greta Thunberg, a Swedish activist gave a powerful speech to the UN about the inaction on climate change.
She ended the speech by saying “We have not come here to beg world leaders to care. You have ignored us in the past and you will ignore us again. We have run out of excuses and we are running out of time. We have come here to let you know that change is coming whether you like it or not. The real power belongs to the people.”
Environmental Activism
When introducing environmental responsibility and activism in your classroom it is important to look deeper than what’s on the news. While Greta Thunberg has global attention there are child activists all over the world. They are changing their communities and the world. You can find out more about these young activists here:
- BBC Newsround: Climate change: 7 young climate activists from around the world
- Earth Day: 19 Youth Climate Activists You Should Be Following On Social Media
- Eco-UNESCO: Why I am a Young Environmentalist
- Project Learning Tree: 13 Inspiring Examples Of Young Environmentalists Making A Difference
- UN Environment Programme: Meet six environmentalists who are changing the world
Environment Responsibility Through Teaching
As educators, it is partly our responsibility to help children understand the need for change and the consequences of inaction. While the future of the planet is very political it doesn’t have to be with children. If you want to inspire your students further with environmental responsibility try some of these activities and model positive actions.
- Get children involved in recycling, reducing and reusing items where possible.
- Involve children in outdoor activities and appreciate nature, plants, animals and insects. You could get involved in cleaning up your local environment – beaches, parks, etc.
- Do you have a garden or even a window sill? Try some gardening or growing your own food.
- Develop an understanding of how precious water is.
- Encourage children to turn the tap off when they are cleaning their teeth, etc.
- Recycling old clothes and toys.
- Save electricity by turning off lights or plugs when not needed.
Environment Books For Children
These environment books focus on different aspects of saving the planet including deforestation, plastic reduction and saving habitats. Other themes include respect, responsibility, open-mindedness and empathy.
What Next?
Are you worried about the state of our planet? How do you help children understand the importance of their action when it comes to the environment?
If you have used these books tell what you thought of their message for children. Add comments below.
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I love all of these suggestions and am putting them on our holds list at the library. One question: do you have any similar suggestions for middle grades books?
Dear Julia, Thank you for your comments!! My knowledge of middle school books is not great but try this site https://www.readbrightly.com/environmentally-conscious-middle-grade-books/. You will find some great choices.
What a great list you’ve put together, it’s such an important topic for students to learn about.
Thanks Jennifer!
So many amazing suggestions! I’ve never read any of these, and now I want them all! I can’t wait to grab them from our library – I’m sure my kiddos will love them.
Yeah!! I hope you find them at your local library. Thanks for the comment!
Thanks for sharing!
Beautiful book recommendations! It always amazes me how much a single book can have on a child. Channeling that power towards protecting nature is a great idea!
I totally agree, Michelle. Glad you enjoy the recommendations!
These look like wonderful books with beautiful illustrations! I love the idea of changing the world through literature. It’s a much more positive approach.
Thanks, Heidi! I agree literature is such a positive tool, especially with children.