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Earth Day 2025: Students Lead Climate Learning Experience at the Green Demonstration Room

Jounieh, 22 April 2025
In celebration of Earth Day 2025, and under the global theme “Our Power, Our Planet,” UNESCO Beirut, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, organized an immersive educational experience at the Green Demonstration Room, located at the Center for Educational Research and Development (CERD) in Jounieh.
Earth Day 2025: Students Lead Climate Learning Experience at the Green Demonstration Room

The event brought together H.E. Dr. Tamara Zein, Minister of Environment; H.E. Rima Karami, Minister of Education and Higher Education; Ms. Costanza Farina, Director of the UNESCO Beirut Office; and Dr. Hiyam Ishak, President of CERD, alongside students, teachers, and trainers from across Lebanon. The day created an inclusive and dynamic space for interactive learning and meaningful exchange around climate action and sustainability.


Throughout the day, students took the lead in guiding ministers and education experts through the learning stations of the Green Demonstration Room—sharing their understanding of environmental concepts, green building design, energy efficiency, water conservation, and creative expression through arts and music. This direct engagement offered a powerful moment of connection between decision-makers and young learners, reinforcing the importance of youth participation in shaping climate solutions.


Reflecting on the experience, H.E. Dr. Tamara Zein remarked, “It is truly inspiring to see young minds engaging so thoughtfully with the tools, ideas, and leading voices that are shaping the future of Lebanon’s environment. This meaningful space, rich in symbolism and purpose, stands as a testament to our unlimited commitment to sustainability and to nurturing the next generation of environmental leaders.”


H.E. Rima Karami emphasized the educational value of the event, stating, “This is not just a global occasion; it is a call to reflect on the state of our planet and to renew our commitment to protecting it. Earth Day is part of our educational mission and our national duty—and all of us at the Ministry see it as a call to action for a more sustainable future.”


Since its activation with UNESCO’s support, the Green Demonstration Room has served as a model for immersive, hands-on environmental education. In 2024 alone, it welcomed over 1,582 students from 70 schools, compared to 525 students from 21 schools in 2023, reflecting the growing demand for climate-focused learning in Lebanon.


Ms. Costanza Farina highlighted the broader significance of the initiative, saying, “The 2025 theme, ‘Our Power, Our Planet,’ reminds us of the urgency of climate action—and the role of education and renewable energy in shaping solutions. With us today are 50 passionate students from across Keserwan—not just future leaders, but changemakers of today. The Green Demonstration Room embodies the vision of the Greening Education Partnership: greening schools, training teachers, enriching curricula, and engaging communities. This is where education becomes transformation.”


As Lebanon continues its journey toward sustainability, UNESCO reaffirms its commitment to environmental education through the Greening Education Initiative—a national effort to equip students, educators, and their communities with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to navigate green and digital transitions. 

Through this initiative, education becomes a powerful driver of environmental stewardship and a foundation for preparing the next generation to tackle global challenges.
 

Earth Day 2025: Students Lead Climate Learning Experience at the Green Demonstration Room