DIRECT CLIMATE COOLING INITIATIVE
DCCI
AWARDS
Direct Climate Cooling Initiative School Awards
Inspiring the Next Generation to Lead Climate Action
The DCCI School Awards empower students worldwide to take bold, innovative action for the planet. Schools become hubs of real-world change, where pupils engage in projects that directly address climate challenges - transforming classrooms into catalysts for environmental impact.
With the backing of scientists, philanthropists, and global changemakers, these awards celebrate schools that embrace creativity, leadership, and sustainability. This is more than recognition; it's a movement, amplifying the voices of young leaders and proving that the next generation has the power to shape the future.
"I was introduced to Fleur and the Direct Climate Cooling Initiative by my cousin, the scientist and meteorologist, Professor Alan Gadian. I was blown away by her work in The Woodland Sprite series (particularly the adaptation of her book Taken by Storm as a stage play) and the powerful message of the organisation to educate the next generation on the catastrophic, global impact of climate change, of our responsibility to work collectively for our environment – but also the message of inspiration and confidence for young people to step forward as our change-makers."
Wendy Gadian
Musical Director
Optimism, creativity and hands-on action
The DCCI School Awards invite schools internationally to participate in a growing movement of optimism, action, creativity and hands-on action. Pupils aged 8 to 18 are encouraged to explore key themes from The Woodland Sprite Series through drama, storytelling, regenerative projects and fundraising. Each school selects an environmental project to support and is paired with regenerative innovators like Klim, De Jonge Veoedselbosboeren, Justdiggit or CEGA to translate learning into measurable lasting impact.
Beyond traditional education, DCCI projects partner with regenerative experts to play active roles in delivering fun, inspiring hands-on, purposeful learning experiences – programs designed to empower young people with the tools and understanding to help regenerate the planet. Heralded by global education champion Brooke Peterson, participating schools will host their own awards
ceremonies, with the opportunity for international recognition at an Annual Awards Event. An integrated Fundraising Art Program, led by global art consultant Aglaia Ponomareva, connects art department students with local established artist. Each artist contributes a piece for auction, alongside selected student work, to raise funds for the school’s chosen climate project.
DCCI Fundraising Art Programs
The DCCI School Awards' fundraising art program skillfully merges creativity with climate 'actionism' by pairing schools with local artists to foster student engagement and support environmental projects. Aglaia Ponomareva's expertise in art curation will facilitate the selection and auctioning of student artworks, either online or at the Awards Evening, while collaborative efforts between students and their paired artists will produce unique pieces that raise funds for chosen environmental causes. This initiative not only enhances artistic expression among students but also leverages the power of art to generate meaningful support for climate action, fostering community involvement and environmental awareness through innovative fundraising.