The Generation for Climate ActioN (GenCAN) is a Leadership Challenge for schools initiated by HCLFoundation and CEE. This is a sustainability and climate change education initiative to engage schools with their teachers and students to communicate, collaborate and cooperate in learning about climate change to develop their own action plan for reducing carbon footprint.
The future of our planet depends on the actions we take today. As climate change increasingly affects ecosystems, communities, and livelihoods, young people have a vital role to play in shaping a more sustainable and resilient future. Guided by a vision to empower every school to nurture climate-conscious and action-oriented young citizens, HCLFoundation and the Centre for Environment Education (CEE) launched Generation for Climate Action (GenCAN) in April 2023. Through this national initiative, students and teachers are equipped with the knowledge, skills, values, and opportunities to understand climate change, lead local solutions, and inspire sustainable practices. At the heart of the programme is a four-step Climate Action Leadership Challenge, through which student teams in Grades 6–12 translate learning into measurable action, making schools hubs of innovation, leadership, and sustainability.
Circle in the logo depicts planet earth. Gen word represents the current generation which is faced with climate challenges today and must be empowered. CAN stands for working towards finding solutions and taking action. Peepal leaf symbolizes valuing the traditional wisdom of climate friendly practices and lifestyles which we need to relearn as intergenerational knowledge.
Schools empower young citizens with critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and leadership skills which are vital for advancing climate action. Keeping this in mind, an exciting climate action leadership challenge is designed for schools under GenCAN initiative. It is an annual programme where schools are invited to engage a team of 5-8 students and teachers who further involve the entire school in becoming a climate friendly school.
To join , REGISTER for the Climate Action Leadership Challenge. For more information, kindly refer to the BROCHURE
GenCAN integrates internationally recognized frameworks and national initiatives to equip young people with the knowledge, skills, values, and opportunities needed for climate action and sustainable development.
Generation for Climate Action (GenCAN) was selected as an Outstanding Flagship Project under the Regional Centres of Expertise (RCE) Recognition Awards 2025 by the United Nations University Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS). This recognition celebrates GenCAN's innovative approach to empowering students and teachers through climate education, youth leadership, and local climate action, contributing to Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) and the Sustainable Development Goals.
