The world is at a turning point. Climate change is not a distant threat — it’s unfolding now. But with every challenge comes the opportunity for transformation. The next generation holds immense power to shape the future, and at TED Countdown, we believe in giving them the tools to do just that.
That’s why we created “TED Explores: A New Climate Vision,” a 60-minute film capturing groundbreaking ideas from the 2023 TED Countdown Summit in Detroit, Michigan. We teamed up with TED-Ed to create a Facilitator Guide — a dynamic resource designed to turn passive viewing into active learning and engagement.
Whether you’re an educator, community leader, parent, or simply passionate about climate action, this guide provides an accessible way to start meaningful conversations, explore bold solutions, and empower changemakers of all ages to take action.
"We are not powerless. We have the knowledge — the technology — and the ability to build a cleaner, fairer, and more sustainable world. The question is: Will we choose to act?" -Christiana Figueres, Former UN Climate Chief
Turning a moment of crisis into opportunity
The Facilitator Guide breaks the film into bite-sized, engaging explorations that make it easy to bring climate discussions into any setting — classrooms, book clubs, workplaces or community gatherings.
Through seven thought-provoking film chapters, participants will explore human impacts on ecosystems and ways to mitigate them, evaluate scientific evidence and forecast future climate trends, and analyze real-world solutions already making a difference. Each chapter includes:
- Video clips featuring TED Talks and powerful moments from the film that spotlight innovative climate solutions
- Discussion prompts with big questions that encourage reflection and dialogue
- Quizzes that reinforce key concepts and challenge participants to think critically about climate solutions
- Deep dives with additional resources and key terms to expand understanding
- Action steps with practical ways to get involved in climate action at the local and global levels
Building a movement, one conversation at a time
This isn’t just about learning — it’s about empowerment. The guide equips participants with the knowledge and confidence to turn insight into action, whether by hosting a community screening, designing local sustainability projects or amplifying climate conversations in their networks.
Imagine a classroom where students watch a clip about renewable energy and then brainstorm ways to make their school more sustainable. Picture a community screening where neighbors discuss how to bring green spaces into their city. Envision young changemakers standing on stage, giving TED-style talks about the climate solutions they believe in.
This is the world we can build — one conversation, one idea, and one action at a time. We invite you to be a part of this movement. Whether you use the guide in your classroom, community, or simply as inspiration for your own learning, you’re helping to cultivate a generation of informed, hopeful and action-driven leaders.
Explore the Facilitator Guide today and join us in shaping a new climate vision.
