South Africa is expected to face severe consequences from global warming. It is predicted that droughts, floods and fires could increase, with the generation of current school-goers likely to bear the brunt of these changes – and play a major role in mitigating the worst effects.

Dr Eureta Rosenberg, a consultant on environmental education, said: “It’s important that young people understand the decisions that they are taking as it ultimately determines how future generations could be affected by global warming.” But she said incorporating the issue into the classroom was hampered by a lack of knowledge amongst teachers. A large percentage of teachers did not have an environmental background as this had not been a requirement when they had qualified.