What is “Klimaschule Bayern”?

Klimaschule Bayern is a joint program of the Bavarian Ministry for the Environment and the Ministry of Education, coordinated by the State Agency for Energy and Climate Protection (LENK). It supports schools in integrating climate action and sustainability into all areas of school life — from lessons and infrastructure to community projects and daily routines. Schools measure their own CO₂ footprint, develop a climate action plan, and implement practical projects in fields such as energy, mobility, waste, nutrition, and communication. Successful schools are officially certified as “Klimaschule” (Bronze, Silver or Gold). As part of the project management team at LENK, I contribute to the development and implementation of this program — helping schools across Bavaria become real-life examples of sustainable transformation. Angelika Bachmann is part of the project-team since 2024. 

Program Goals & Approach

• Embed climate protection and education for sustainable development (ESD/BNE) across all school levels and subjects. 

• Measure the school’s CO₂ footprint (across energy, mobility, waste, procurement, etc.) to assess impact and identify reduction pathways 

• Develop and implement a school-based climate action plan with concrete projects in multiple “action fields” (mobility, energy, waste, procurement, food, networking/communication, compensation, etc.) 

• Provide support, resources, training, networking, and certification for participating schools 

• Award a seal of recognition (Bronze / Silver / Gold) based on progress, with prize money up to €1,500 for certified schools 

Participation & Process

• More than 270 schools across Bavaria have already signed up to become “Klimaschule.” klimaschule.bayern.de

• The pathway to certification is structured into 10 steps, starting from gathering information, forming a project team, assessing the CO₂ baseline, planning and executing climate measures, to final evaluation and award. 

• Certification is granted by a jury from the ministries, BNE teams, and the state climate/energy agency. Schools may take the steps at their own pace and aim for progressive improvement. 

Why It Matters — and Why Join?

• Schools become living examples of climate action, not just teaching theory 

• It strengthens school identity, teamwork, and ownership among students, teachers, staff, and the wider community 

• It contributes to Bavaria’s climate goals and the global sustainability framework (Agenda 2030) 

• Certification helps make the school’s commitment visible and rewarded, both internally and in the public eye