Youth Climate Action Grants

Youth Climate Action Grant applications are now closed for 2025.

 

The Youth Climate Action Grants provides funding to TDSB and TCDSB student-led projects, activities and events that:

  • educate and engage students, families and/or community members on climate actions
  • help Toronto achieve its GHG emissions reduction goals by 2030
  • align with the TransformTO Net Zero Strategy for net-zero emissions by 2040

Grant funding up to $1,000 is available. This funding program is a partnership between the City and the Toronto District School Board and Toronto Catholic District School Board.

Key Dates

  • November 28, 2025: Full grant application deadline
  • January 2026: Funding decisions announced
  • June 2026: Completion of approved project (preferred)

Priority will be given to projects completed before the last day of the current school year; however we will consider applications for projects that will be completed within one year. 

Key dates are subject to change.

The Youth Climate Action Grants are open to all TDSB and TCDSB student-led groups consisting of two or more students from grades JK to 12. A TDSB or TCDSB staff member must serve as the project supervisor.

Eligible Applicants

Student-led groups, including:

  • classroom projects
  • school clubs and teams
  • student councils
  • student groups that partner with parent councils
  • student-teacher collaborations

Ineligible Applicants

  • individual students
  • teachers (without student collaboration)
  • multiple groups from the same classroom
  • principals and vice-principals
  • TDSB or TCDSB Facility Services, Administration and Trustees
  • for-profit businesses
  • grant making organizations
  • TDSB or TCDSB approved vendors
  • community organizations
  • registered charitable organizations and/or non-profit environmental organizations
  • school groups allied with political parties
  • groups previously funded via a City of Toronto grant that have not provided proof of project completion (i.e. submission of a Final Report and Expense Summary)

Eligible Projects

Eligible grant projects must;

  • be created and delivered by TDSB or TCDSB students
  • satisfy an objective of the grant program:
    • educate and engage students, families and/or community members on climate change and climate actions; and/or
    • reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in Toronto
  • take place within the boundaries of the city of Toronto
  • follow TDSB or TCDSB rules, for example, using approved educational programming partners
  • have TDSB or TCDSB permission, for example, permission to build a garden
  • provide permission from the school Principal

Examples of eligible projects:

  • activities that enhance the existing school curriculum 
  • education campaigns (for example, waste reduction, energy conservation, active transportation) 
  • repair events (e.g., bikes, clothing, electronics)
  • exchange or swap events (e.g., clothing, books, toys, sports equipment)
  • educational videos
  • field trips specific to the grant objectives (must be a shared cost)
  • guest speakers
  • organize a community climate event
  • repair events (for example, bikes, clothing, electronics) 
  • social media campaigns
  • sustainable transportation events (for example, bike rodeos, idle-free vehicle blitz)
  • school ground revitalizations (for example, food gardens, outdoor classrooms)
  • workshops, demonstrations and group activities provided by TDSB approved environmental partners

Ineligible Projects

Examples of projects the City will not fund include:

Step 1: Submit a request for funding

  • Starting October 1, apply for grant funding using our quick and easy online application form.
  • The application form asks you to share information about your group, school and your grant project idea, and only takes 5-10 minutes to complete.
  • The main contact person (teacher or lead student) for the proposed project should complete the application.
  • Secondary students are encouraged to submit their own applications with support and guidance from their TDSB or TCDSB project supervisor.
  • Submit only one application per group or classroom. If more than one project is submitted by the same group or classroom, the City will review the submission that was received first.
  • There is no limit to the number of grant applications that can be submitted from a school as long as the applications are from different groups or classrooms and are different climate action concepts.
  • Download a preview of the Request for Funding Form (please note, questions are subject to change). You can use this document to help plan, brainstorm and organize your project ideas and submission.
  • If you have questions or requests for accessibility supports, accommodation and/or a different application format, please contact us. 

Step 2: Get feedback about your project idea

  • City and school board staff will review Step 1 funding applications.
  • Feedback will be provided by email.
  • Additional guidance may be provided by phone or in-person, if required.
  • Project idea is deemed eligible to proceed will be directed to Step 3 (this is not a guarantee of funding).

Step 3: Submit a full grant proposal

  • Full grant proposals require a work plan, costed budget and other supporting documents.
  • Feedback that was provided in Step 2, should be used to prepare your full proposal.
  • Full grant proposals must be submitted before the deadline date.
  • Funding decisions will be announced in January 2026.

Step 4: Application review and project approval

  • Step 3 full grant proposals will undergo a technical review by Environment, Climate & Forestry Division staff to confirm all eligibility requirements have been met.
  • Projects deemed eligible will then be assessed by a Review Committee comprised of staff from the City of Toronto and TDSB or TCDSB.
  • The Review Committee is responsible for funding decisions.
  • The Review Committee may ask for additional information to assist in the review, assessment and monitoring of your application.
  • Successful grant recipients will be notified of the approved grant funding amounts. 
  • Applicants that accept the funding offer will enter into an agreement with the TDSB or TCDSB. Additional information about the funding award process and the agreement will be provided at that time.
  • Restrictions may apply to past grant recipients to ensure equitable distribution of remaining funds.
  • Projects that are deemed not ready to proceed will be encouraged to reapply to a future grant application cycle.

Watch Info Session Recording

    Budgets cannot exceed $1,000. Funding can only be used for the direct delivery of the proposed project. If you are unsure if an expense is eligible, please contact us.

    Type of Expense Eligible Items
    Materials/Tools/Equipment
    • project supplies – paper, pens, poster boards, markers, paint
    • raw materials – wood, soil, screws
    • rentals or small equipment purchases
    Events/Workshops
    • speaker fees
    • training supplies
    • space rental or permit fees for event/activity space
    • communications and promotion of events (e.g. flyers, posters, design, printing)
    • food and refreshments (no bottled water) for participants (up to 25% of total grant request)
    People/Labour*
    • skilled labour (for example, hiring a contractor to build a garden box) (up to 25% of total grant request)
    • professional consultant fees (for example, design, translation, communications) (up to 25% of total grant request)
    • honouraria for voluntary services (for example, guest speakers or ceremonial duties) (up to 25% of total grant request)
    • volunteer and participant expenses (for example, food, transit, personal protective equipment)

    * Skilled labour providers, professional consultants, guest speakers and workshop facilitators must be approved by the school board. 
    Education/Awareness Materials
    • signage
    • books (subject to school board approval)
    • instructional kits
    • camera film

    Type of Expense Ineligible Items
    Materials/Tools/Equipment
    • promotional items that could contribute to waste (for example, swag and buttons)
    • rental/purchase of combustion engine vehicles (for example buses or taxis) or any other gas-powered equipment (for example, gas generators), and gasoline or any other fuels
    • chicken wire, composters (TDSB)
    • tablets and other electronics such as computers
    • air conditioners, HEPA air filters or HVAC-related items
    Events/Workshops
    • educational programming (for example, workshops, seminars, presentations) provided by organizations that have not been approved by the TDSB or TCDSB.
    • catering, alcohol or cannabis
    • fundraising drives
    • pre-existing school projects and/or events (for example, annual fun fairs)
    • disposable items (for example, single-use plastics, bottled water)
    People/Labour
    • fees and expenses for memberships, conferences, travel, personal vehicle use and parking
    • salaries, hourly wages and income-generating activities for staff/group members
    • prizes and thank you gifts (e.g. gift cards) as a form of volunteer appreciation or compensation
    • honoraria/stipends for non-approved roles
    • disbursement of funds to provide additional grants, rebates, or incentives to other parties
    Personal Benefits & Organizational Operating Costs
    • costs associated with the regular operation of your group or club, such as computer equipment, software, phones, internet, accounting services, insurance, utility bills etc.
    • deliverables that will result in a significant increase in school board operating or capital costs (for example, air conditioners, HEPA air filters or HVAC-related items)
    • religious activities/services, political activities, donations to charitable causes, lobbying or advocacy on behalf of for-profit entities
    • routine maintenance, emergency repairs or major capital improvements (for example, cricket pitches, artificial turf, solar installations, playground renovations)
    • paid advertising campaigns in newspapers, etc.
    Outdoor Activities
    • beautification, maintenance or landscaping repairs (for example, ornamental gardens, pathways)
    • playgrounds, furnishings, fencing, armour stone, water-bottle refilling stations
    • pollinator gardens (for example, plants, garden materials and supplies), visit PollinateTO Grants
    • tree or shrub planting, visit Urban Forestry Grants & Incentives for funding opportunities
    • ecological stewardship, such as removal of invasive species
    • litter cleanups and tools, visit Clean Toronto Together for support
    • outdoor composting projects
    Other
    • projects already approved for funding, including those funded by other City of Toronto grant programs
    • research or scientific studies
    • unspecified “miscellaneous” items

          We encourage the hiring of Indigenous, Black and equity-deserving staff, consultants, labourers, interpreters and translators, and encourage supporting local, Indigenous, Black and equity-deserving businesses for eligible purchases.

          Upon project completion, grant recipients must submit the following;

          1. Final Report: We want to hear about your project! Please include photos, testimonials and other items to show the impact of your project and evidence of completion.
          2. Final Budget Summary: Report the actual costs of your project

          An online Final Report form will be provided to grant recipients when they are ready to submit their final report and budget summary.

          The Youth Climate Action Grants team may request a site visit to see your project and speak with project participants about their grant experience.

          Check out the amazing projects supported by the Youth Climate Action Grants and get inspired to launch your own climate initiative.

          TDSB Grant Recipients and Projects
          Year Ward School Climate Action Project Name Project Description
          2022 23 Anson S. Taylor Public School Local Food and Food Gardens Anson S. Taylor Tower Garden Using a tower garden, students will explore and promote the benefits of home gardening for health and environmental sustainability. Students will learn how home gardening helps reduce GHG emissions and become advocates for local food.
          2022 11 Beverley School Waste Reduction Beverly School Zero Waste Eco Art Students will raise awareness about plastic pollution and waste management through art. They will collect and repurpose various upcycled materials to create art and organize an educational eco-art event for the school community.
          2022 23 Burrows Hall Junior Public School Biodiversity Conservation Become One With The Earth - Save the Animals Students will learn about climate change, its impact on wildlife, and the actions we can take to reduce our environmental footprint. Students will come up with their own ideas for reducing GHG emissions and share these solutions with fellow students and family.
          2022 14 Cosburn Middle School Local Food and Food Gardens GROWING FOOD LOCALLY This project will educate students and families on the benefits of growing their own food as a way to reduce GHG emissions and food waste. Eco Club members will educate others on climate change and encourage them to take action by making more sustainable food choices.
          2022 12 Davisville Junior Public School Waste Reduction Clothes with New Use Students will help reduce textile waste by repurposing and upcycling used clothing and fabrics. A free-cycle community closet will be established and students will create new items, such as shopping bags, from used textiles.
          2022 12 Davisville Junior Public School Sustainable Transportation Davisville Bikes! Davisville Bikes! is all about getting students and their families out of cars and onto bikes. Students will receive instruction on safe urban biking and will learn about sustainable transportation through a student-led educational campaign and community bike swap.
          2022 12 Davisville Junior Public School Waste Reduction Zero Waste Davisville Students will support litterless lunches at school by providing reusable utensils, serving ware, and coolers. They will help reduce individually packaged snacks by offering package-free alternatives. Through this initiative, students will learn how to minimize waste and properly sort recyclables and organic waste.
          2022 7 Derrydown Public School Local Food and Food Gardens Greenhouse Dragons Students will lead a locally grown food education campaign, learning where food comes from and evaluating the GHG emissions associated with imported versus local foods. Their findings will be shared with other students, families and the wider community to promote the environmental benefits of locally grown food.
          2022 17 Forest Manor Public School Local Food and Food Gardens Balcony Container Gardening Students will teach their families and communities how locally grown food can help reduce GHG emissions. Students will germinate seeds and, with support from their families, plant them in containers to grow on balconies and other small spaces.
          2022 12 J.R. Wilcox Community School Local Food and Food Gardens Wilcox Garden-T.O.-Go Students will create garden "to go" boxes including soil, seeds, a recipe book and step-by-step instructions for growing plants from seed. Plants grown in class will be included in these starter kits and distributed to the community to encourage sustainable food practices.
          2022 3 Karen Kain School of the Arts Biodiversity Conservation Giving Local Mimico Creek a Voice Students will investigate and educate the school community about the health of Mimico Creek. The project will include water quality testing, the production of a documentary film to share with other students and schools, and the development of an action plan to help improve the creek's water quality.
          2022 12 McMurrich Junior Public School Local Food and Food Gardens Our Community Garden to support Pollinators Students will create a community garden featuring planters focusing on different types of plants, including fall harvested vegetables, summer harvested vegetables and native species. The garden will highlight how growing local food can reduce our carbon footprint and how native plants support pollinators.
          2022 6 Northview Heights Secondary School Environmental Education Air Purifier Controller Students will design and build an automated air purifier aimed at reducing energy consumption compared to traditional models that run continuously. The project will help the school lower energy costs while maintaining high indoor air quality.
          2022 17 Seneca Hill Public School Local Food and Food Gardens Grow Green Students will learn about the impact of food production on climate change and promote local food as a sustainable action that supports their community, culture, economy and environment. Students will grow food to share with the school community and share their learning through posters and presentations.
          2022 17 Seneca Hill Public School Waste Reduction Recycling Fun Students will learn about the 3R’s (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) and explore the issue of waste production in Canada, including what happens to our garbage. Students will conduct a classroom waste audit, reuse recyclable materials in art projects and present their work to the school to promote waste reduction.
          2022 6 STRIDES Environmental Education STRIDES Climate Wellness Project To promote “Climate Wellness” in the classroom and community, students will grow and care for native plants that will eventually be transplanted into the Meadoway to help restore natural habitats. They will also start a vermicomposter to reduce food waste and divert organic matter from landfills.
          2022 16 Victoria Park Collegiate Institute Biodiversity Conservation Lake Acidification in Toronto Students will investigate how GHG emissions are affecting pH levels of water bodies in Toronto and raise awareness about this issue. Members of the Women in Stem club will test pH levels of three different water bodies and share their findings with the school community to promote action.
          2022 24 Woburn Junior Public School Waste Reduction Eco Wraps Students will encourage the school community to reduce the use of plastic food containers by introducing eco-friendly alternatives. Students will make Beeswax Wraps and host mini workshops to teach classmates how to use and care for them.
          2022 24 Woburn Junior Public School Local Food and Food Gardens Growing Great Greens Students will build a vegetable and herb garden and teach other students about growing food and how locally grown foods can reduce their carbon footprint and help fight climate change.
          2022 24 Woburn Junior Public School Waste Reduction Too Good to Waste Eco Club members will educate students of the importance of taking ownership of their personal belongings, including food from home, water bottles, clothing, and school supplies. The goal is to foster a mindset that these items are "Too Good to Waste", encouraging care and maintenance to reduce waste sent to landfills.
          2023 4 Annette Street Public School Waste Reduction Know Where to Throw! Students will take on a leadership role in promoting responsible waste management within the school and community by collecting waste audit data and building an awareness campaign.
          2023 11 Bloor Collegiate Institute Renewable Energy & Conservation Bloor CI Wind Turbine Students will build a miniature wind turbine to educate their peers about renewable energy as a solution to climate change. The project will explore the technology behind wind power and highlight career opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
          2023 19 Bowmore Road Junior and Senior Public School Biodiversity Conservation Get to Know and Appreciate the Trees at Bowmore Students will become stewards of 62 schoolyard trees and educate their peers, families, and community about the trees in their neighborhood. They will highlight the importance of tree care as a form of climate action and a way to reduce GHG emissions.
          2023 11 Clinton Street Junior Public School Waste Reduction Clinton St JPS Clinton Composting Indoor composters will convert student generated waste into nutrient rich compost that will be used to grow plants and enrich the soil in school gardens. Students will learn about organic waste management and how organic waste contributes to GHG emissions.
          2023 19 Crescent Town Elementary School Environmental Education Crescent Town Eco Book Club Using books as a starting point, students and their families will engage in conversations about climate change, climate action and environmental stewardship. Student reflections will be published and shared with the school community to inspire learning and dialogue.
          2023 24 Eastview Public School Local Food and Food Gardens Eastview Eagles Eat Eco-friendly Students will help move their school closer to being a zero waste school by increasing the availability of cups, bowls and plates in the school nutrition program. Students will learn actions they can take to reduce GHG emissions through their food choices and explore ways to keep food out of landfills.
          2023 2 Etobicoke Collegiate Institute Waste Reduction Etobicoke CI The Sustainable Threads Weekly workshops will promote sustainable fashion by teaching students practical skills to repair and upcycle pre-loved clothing. By repurposing textiles, students will help reduce the demand for fast fashion and lower GHG emissions associated with the clothing industry.
          2023 18 Fisherville Senior Public School Sustainable Transportation Fisherville SPS Tune Up Shop Students will learn how to maintain and repair their bicycles through a series of hands-on clinics, with the goal of encouraging more students to bike to school. Bike maintenance equipment will be made available at school for both students and staff to support sustainable transportation.
          2023 17 Forest Manor Public School Local Food and Food Gardens Forest Manor Cherry Tomato Container Student and families will learn how to care for food plants grown in containers and their environmental benefits, including reducing GHG emissions. In the spring, students will germinate seeds, and families will take the plants home in containers to nurture and grow..
          2023 21 General Crerar Public School Environmental Education General Crerar Eco-Fair An EcoFair will invite local organizations such as the TRCA and UofT Trash Team to showcase different climate actions that students, families and community members can take in order to fight climate change locally.
          2023 16 Grenoble Public School Sustainable Transportation Grenoble PS Bike Club A student-led initiative aimed at educating students and the community on how cycling can help reduce GHG emissions in Toronto. The project will encourage more people to choose biking as a sustainable way to commute to school and navigate their neighborhoods.
          2023 4 Humberside Collegiate Institute Waste Reduction Waste Not Want Not The Humberside Environmental Action Team will improve waste sorting and diversion by conducting a waste audit. Based on audit findings, the club will design and post customized posters around their school to help educate students on waste reduction and sorting.
          2023 9 Ossington Old Orchard Public School Environmental Education OOOPS Climate Change Club Students will create educational videos highlighting actions kids can take to combat climate change. These videos will raise awareness and inspire students and families to take action, while learning about video production and the use of technology for advocacy.
          2023 16 Three Valleys Public School Local Food and Food Gardens The Three Valleys Eco Explorers Students will host an edible garden workshop and share their knowledge, experiences and research collected during their time at a local community farm. Students, families and community members will learn how growing food locally can help reduce GHG emissions.
          2023 24 Woburn Collegiate Institute Local Food and Food Gardens Woburn CI Community Hub Garden Students will contribute to the expansion of an established community garden by planting seeds, nurturing crops, and harvesting produce in partnership with parents and community members. Through hands-on activities, they will explore sustainable food production and its impact on GHG emissions.
          2023 14 Wilkinson Junior Public School Environmental Education Wilkinson League for Green Leaders Competition Students will participate in the League for Green Leaders competition, where they will track their daily decisions on food, transportation, recycling, measure their carbon footprint and experience collective climate action with classmates and other children from around the world.
          2023 17 Zion Heights Middle School Environmental Education Zion Heights MS Eco-Friendly Zion Heights Students will explore the relationship between climate change and biodiversity by studying their local environment. Through hands-on workshops, they will identify plants, insects, and animals using ID apps, scientific tools like binoculars, and field guides. Their findings and insights will be shared in a presentation during the school’s Earth Day Assembly.
          2023 17 Seneca Hill Public School Waste Reduction Seneca Hill: Love Food Hate Waste Students will help reduce GHG emissions by diverting food waste and other organic materials from landfills into the City of Toronto Green Bin Organics program. They will educate students, staff and families about how food choices and responsible waste disposal can help reduce GHG emissions.
          2023 22 Sir Samuel B Steele Junior Public School Local Food and Food Gardens FDK Outdoor Garden Centre Project Students will create a learning garden to explore the importance of plants for healthy living and communities. Native plant species will be cultivated and shared through plant giveaways at school Eco Fairs and with families.
          2024 4 Annette Street Junior and Senior Public School Environmental Education Annette ECO Fair A student-led 'Eco-Innovation Fair' will showcase innovative solutions to environmental challenges. The full-day fair will include garden tours, tree walks, nature book making, eco data collection, a bird biodiversity project, and displays of student work.
          2024 4 Annette Street Junior and Senior Public School Biodiversity Conservation Toronto Biodiversity Awareness: Winter bird count A project to engage students in citizen science by participating in the Great Backyard Winter Bird Count. The project aims to contribute valuable data to scientific research and raise awareness about the importance of bird conservation and threats to biodiversity in Toronto.
          2024 22 Beverly Glen Junior Public School Local Food and Food Gardens Hydroponics A project to educate students and the community on the benefits of growing and harvesting local foods. Using hydroponic units and interactive workshops, participants will learn how local food production can help reduce GHG emissions.
          2024 2 Broadacres Junior School Environmental Education STEM and EcoSchools Celebration Students will use STEM projects to research and propose new solutions to reduce GHG emissions and help alleviate the effects of climate change on their neighbours and in their communities.
          2024 14 Bruce Public School Waste Reduction Benefits of Repairing and Repurposing Clothing Students will focus on how fast fashion contributes to climate change. Students will learn how to upcycle materials into new items by learning basic sewing skills and will engage their fellow students and community by hosting an information booth and showcasing their upcycling projects at schools events and fairs.
          2024 11 Central Toronto Academy Local Food and Food Gardens Mini-Food Garden Project A student-led project to utilize classroom growing systems that provides students with hands-on experience in plant cultivation and education about the benefits of locally grown food in reducing GHG emissions.
          2024 20 Courcelette Public School Biodiversity Conservation Our Climate Our Water Over 80 students will participate in a field trip to Evergreen Brick Works, where they will learn about Toronto’s ravine system and its environmental, health, and recreational benefits. The experience will also highlight the growing pressures ravines face due to climate change.
          2024 19 Crescent Town Elementary School Biodiversity Conservation Dentonia Park Mural Partnership A collaboration between Secord Elementary School to protect and enhance Dentonia Park. Students will engage in protecting park habitats and species through workshops, fieldtrips, a collaborative mural, and outreach to the broader community.
          2024 19 Earl Haig Public School Environmental Education League of Green Leaders Students will participate in the League for Green Leaders competition, where they will track their daily decisions on food, transportation and recycling, measure their carbon footprint, and experience the collective climate actions they take with classmates and other children around the world.
          2024 19 East York Collegiate Institute Biodiversity Conservation East York Collegiate Institute Courtyard Restoration A courtyard revitalization project that will create an outdoor education classroom and space to grow vegetables for food and nutrition programs. Students will learn about what makes a healthy ecosystem, learn indigenous knowledge and connections to the land.
          2024 9 Fairbank Memorial Community School Environmental Education FMCS Eco-Fair! A school-wide project to host the school’s first 'Eco Fair' to educate and engage students on topics including biodiversity, conservation and sustainable energy practices through interactive student-led workshops, presentations, and hands-on activities.
          2024 25 Highland Creek Public School Waste Reduction Minimize Food Waste Students will conduct a waste audit and waste reduction awareness campaign to help students learn about the economic and environmental impacts of food waste and what they can do to help reduce food waste.
          2024 3 Karen Kain School of the Arts Sustainable Transportation KKSA Pedal Power Project A project to learn about low-carbon transportation options by encouraging cycling as a fun, healthy and eco-friendly mode of transportation. Activities include designing and building pedal-powered stationary bikes and hosting a community Bike Rodeo during Bike Week.
          2024 4 Keele Street Public School Sustainable Transportation Keele Street Bike Rodeo A project to encourage cycling to school by teaching bike safety and maintenance. Proposed activities include: bike safety workshops, bike maintenance clinics, a bike rodeo, a bike-to-school challenge, and community bike rides.
          2024 4 Mountview Alternative Junior School Waste Reduction Circular Fashion Challenge Proposal An Eco Club climate action project to reduce clothing and textile waste and encourage the reuse of materials by undertaking a schoolwide 'Circular Fashion Challenge' in collaboration with Fashion Takes Action.
          2024 22 North Bridlewood Junior Public School Local Food and Food Gardens Sustainable and Resilient Food Learning Gardens An Eco-club project to grow vegetables and promote local food. Students, parents and caregivers will learn about the importance of a sustainable and resilient food system through participation in hands-on activities and a weekly electronic communication.
          2024 10 Oasis Alternative Secondary School Environmental Education Just Because Climate Awareness Day A student-led project to host a 'Just Because Climate Awareness Day' for students and families. The event will include hands-on learning stations addressing single-use plastics and disposables, composting and food waste diversion, net zero travel to school, and benefits of greening homes and schools.
          2024 10 Ogden Junior Public School Local Food and Food Gardens Ogden Grows Students will host a community planting event where students, parents and the community will learn about soil conservation, native plants, invasive species, seed starting, growing food in containers and how they can contribute to food security and reducing GHG emissions.
          2024 20 Regent Heights Public School Environmental Education Our Planet, Our Responsibility A project to educate and inspire fellow students to take climate actions though stop motion animation. Student will apply knowledge about fighting climate change with the help of guest speakers and hands-on workshops.
          2024 19 Secord Elementary Public School Local Food and Food Gardens Honourable Harvest Students will cultivate a small food garden that featuring the Three Sisters (corn, beans and squash). By caring for the plants, students will learn gardening skills, reflect on their relationship with food as urban dwellers, and celebrate Haudenosaunee ingenuity. Students will learn why local food is important nutritionally and environmentally.
          2024 19 Secord Elementary Public School Biodiversity Conservation Dentonia Park Mural Partnership A collaboration with Crescent Town Elementary School to protect and enhance Dentonia Park. Students will engage in protecting park habitats and species through workshops, fieldtrips, a collaborative mural, and outreach to the community.
          2024 22 Sir Ernest MacMillan Senior Public School Local Food and Food Gardens HydroGrow: Sustainable Aquaponics for a Greener Community A student-led initiative that will use aquaponics to create a sustainable, zero-waste food system while educating their school and community on climate action. This project will include  workshops and tours with other local schools.
          2024 6 Toronto District Secondary School (at Humber River Hospital) Biodiversity Conservation Humber River Health Climate Joy Project Students will learn how to grow and care for plants to improve air quality, reduce stress, and lower GHG emissions. They will explore ways to divert food waste and other organic materials from landfills and take part in hands-on learning from AlterEden's Minogin Gitigaanis Program.
          2024 3 Twentieth Street Junior School Local Food and Food Gardens Garden-Empathy Connection Students will turn an unused garden site into a vegetable and flower garden. Students will learn how to start seeds, tend a garden and will share their new knowledge with their communities through handmade signage and art.
          2024 1 West Humber Junior Middle School Local Food and Food Gardens School Growing Garden This project will provide hands-on learning about growing food and maintaining existing native plants in front of the school. Students will learn about the principles of food security, nutritional and medicinal properties of native plants and gain a stronger awareness and appreciation towards the local farming community.
          2024 24 Woburn Collegiate Institute Environmental Education Our Power, Our Planet This project will foster student leadership, environmental education and stronger community connections. Student-led initiatives will include an Earth Week assembly with guest speakers, spirit week activities, an outdoor 'Woburn Revitalization' day and a 'Tour our Gardens' event for the community.
          2024 17 Zion Heights Middle School Local Food and Food Gardens Zion’s Food Garden A local food garden project that will educate and engage students, teachers and community members in growing and harvesting local foods. Through the school garden, students will learn the many environmental benefits of local foods, including reducing GHG emissions.

           

          Year Ward School Climate Action Project Name Project Description
          TCDSB Grant Recipients and Projects
          2024 3 Father John Redmond Catholic Secondary School Sustainable Transportation Spring Biking Campaign A school and community wide project aimed at integrating safe biking education into the physical education program. Students will learn to use biking trails across Toronto, the proper use of bike lanes, safe practices when riding bikes, and will raise awareness of the benefits of cycling such as better air quality and less traffic on our roads.
          2024 4 James Culnan Catholic School Biodiversity Conservation Kids Go Wild - Experiencing nature in urban spaces This climate action will educate students and the community in protecting nature in urban environments. Through educational workshops led by the Toronto Wildlife Centre and the creation of an outdoor learning space filled with native plants, students will gain a deeper understanding of biodiversity, ecosystem restoration and combating climate change locally.
          2024 8 Loretto Abbey Catholic Secondary School Biodiversity Conservation ABBees This project will engage students in hands-on learning about bee ecology, sustainable practices, and climate change. Key activities include creating safe habitat for wild bees on school grounds, collaborating with experts to deepen students’ understanding of bees and biodiversity, and developing entrepreneurial and environmental stewardship skills through experiential learning.
          2024 8 Loretto Abbey Catholic Secondary School Environmental Education Clear-washing Greenwashing Initiative A project to raise awareness about greenwashing by creating posters/artwork, starting an environment club, starting a social media account, hosting outdoor activities, and organizing community events. Students will benefit from education about the impacts of greenwashing and make better-informed shopping decisions.
          2024 8 Loretto Abbey Catholic Secondary School Waste Reduction Repair Cafe To empower students to opt out of the cycle of waste and overconsumption driven by the fast fashion industry, this project will host a monthly 'Repair Cafe' events. Staffed by student volunteers, these sessions will teach practical skills such as hemming, replacing buttons, and small alterations.
          2024 8 Loretto Abbey Catholic Secondary School Local Food and Food Gardens The Self-Sustainable Vertical Garden Students will deepen their understanding of sustainable technology by designing and building a vertical growing tower powered by solar energy. They will integrate a solar panel system to charge a battery that operates the pump and lighting required for plant growth. Students will calculate the total voltage and watts needed to fully automate the system and run off grid.
          2024 8 Loretto Abbey Catholic Secondary School Waste Reduction Autonomous Waste Collection Robots Computer science students will build and program a robot to autonomously "see" litter in designated areas around the city of Toronto. Students and staff will also learn about waste reduction practices through promotional pamphlets, class presentations, posters and by undertaking a waste audit.
          2024 9 Loretto College School Local Food and Food Gardens Growing Your Garden This project will teach students how to grow their own food while raising awareness about the importance of buying local and reducing food waste. Activities will include hands-on gardening events, educational workshops, and the creation of infographics to promote sustainable food practices within the school and broader community.
          2024 8 Marshall McLuhan Catholic Secondary School Environmental Education EcoVision: Empowering the McLuhan Community Through Climate Action A project that will engage and educate students, families, and community members about climate change, climate actions, and environmental sustainability. The Science Club will serve as a driving force in promoting awareness and understanding of climate change and environmental issues while inspiring practical action.
          2024 1 Monsignor Percy Johnson Catholic Secondary School Waste Reduction Stop 'n' Swap Shop Students will learn how to transform clothing into innovative creations and display their creations to inspire other students and their community. The project will focus on waste reduction, reusing textiles and repurposing textiles into new goods while fostering sewing skills and extending the life of clothing.
          2024 20 Neil McNeil High School Biodiversity Conservation Climate Change and Fresh Water Ecosystems Using a study of The Marrow Thieves novel as a basis for this project, students will research and determine how close to reality the novel predicts the trajectory of climate change consequences on sources of fresh water. Other factors that contribute to environmental destruction will also be considered, such as oil drilling and waste run off.
          2024 19 Notre Dame High School Environmental Education Lights ON with Green Energy This project will enhance Grade 6 students' understanding of renewable energy through a series of hands-on workshops. Students will design and build models of renewable energy sources using household items and learn how to connect these energy sources into an electric circuit.
          2024 20 Saint John Henry Newman Catholic High School Waste Reduction REPURPOSE ME A student-led project to help reduce clothing and other textile waste by creating donation closets at the school, hosting repair activities and workshops and delivering an awareness campaign on textile waste, fast fashion and the connection to climate change.
          2024 8 St. Charles Catholic School Environmental Education Eco Book Talk Students will explore environmental issues through a series of "book talks" that will build awareness about climate change and it's impacts. Each book will immerse the students in learning experiences that spark curiosity though actionable learning.
          2024 7 St. Basil the Great College School Biodiversity Conservation St. Basil's Birds at Risk Project A project to raise awareness about biodiversity within Toronto, with a focus on native bird species. Students will engage in projects like crafting bird seed feeders, bird watching and counts which will help promote a deeper understanding and protection of native birds.
          2024 7 St. Francis de Sales Catholic School Biodiversity Conservation The Bee Keepers The project will involve students in hands-on learning about bee ecology, sustainable practices and climate change. The key components of this initiative include: creating bee habitat, learning from bee experts, and fostering entrepreneurial skills with a focus on environmental stewardship.
          2024 24 St. John Paul II Catholic Secondary School Waste Reduction Recycling Water Bottles and Plastic Disposable Utensils for 3D Filament Students will turn discarded plastic waste into usable 3D printer filament to reduce the schools plastic waste output while supplying a steady source of material for the schools robotics program. Excess filament produced will be shared with other schools and help foster a circular economy.
          2024 24 St. John Paul II Catholic Secondary School Local Food and Food Gardens SJPII Community Garden A climate action project to educate students on seed diversity and sustainable local food production. Students will learn about urban agriculture and gain hands-on experience in cultivating vegetable gardens. Students will share their harvest with the school's hospitality class and other students, promoting food security and community support.
          2024 14 St. Patrick Catholic Secondary School Waste Reduction Junk Art Night A student-led project to transform recyclable materials into beautiful artworks including murals, sculptures, fashion, and more. The project will culminate in an art gallery event where the school community, student families and the neighbourhood community will learn about waste reduction strategies and how waste can be transformed into art.
          2024 4 St. Pius X Catholic School Local Food and Food Gardens Food Garden - St. Pius X Catholic School Students will grow fruits and vegetables and learn what is involved in food production and how local foods can reduce GHG emissions, improve soil quality, lesson pesticide use and provide better nutrition.
          2024 24 St. Richard Catholic School Environmental Education Waste-to-Wisdom: A Green Energy Journey Students will visit the ZooShare Biogas Plant, where they will observe the process of converting organic waste into clean, renewable energy. Following the visit, the Eco Team will educate the broader school community by organizing interactive presentations, hands-on workshops, and informative displays.

          Citizen Science Projects

          Environmental Education

          TDSB Resources

          TCDSB Resources

          Sustainable Transportation

          Waste Reduction

          Local Food & Food Gardens

          Biodiversity & Conservation

            Renewable Energy & Conservation