TRACE - Transformative Agency in Climate Education

TRACE (Transformative Research on Agency in Climate Education) is a European project that explores how climate change education can support young people in developing meaningful forms of individual, collective, and political agency. The project addresses a growing tension: many students show high awareness and concern about climate change, yet experience limited opportunities to act in ways that feel effective or socially recognised (Otto et al., 2020; Kranz et al., 2025). TRACE investigates how agency takes shape within educational practices and school contexts, at the intersection of scientific knowledge, values, emotions, and social relations, in line with recent perspectives in science education and sustainability education (Bianchi et al., 2022; Schubatzky et al., 2026). Empirically, TRACE combines research with the design and implementation of Students Labs, participatory learning environments where students engage with climate science while exploring societal implications and collective responses. In parallel, the project develops a self-reflection tool that supports students in reflecting on their perceived role and possibilities for action regarding climate change. Used as both a pedagogical and research device, the tool helps make emerging forms of climate agency visible and discussable. Overall, TRACE contributes to rethinking science education as a space for democratic participation and societal transformation in the context of the climate crisis.