It aims to achieve deep and long-term changes in understanding, particularly of young people. It includes curriculum development, training of trainers and educators, and appropriate pedagogical approaches. The results of a successful programme would eventually be a population with a deep awareness of climate challenges, leading to greater commitment and action at the national level.

Ensuring that citizens can effectively participate in climate decision-making and action (adaptation and mitigation activities) would enable governments to integrate civil society perspectives and mobilise the general public. In some contexts, this may require profound changes in the way governments and public servants are used to interacting with citizens and invites citizens to be more alert to political processes

Initiatives for engaging citizens and CSOs in climate change responses can be enhanced to the extent that information becomes freely available. This is key when developing effective policies and engaging people in their implementation. Freely accessible databases and the Internet make relevant information, data, and statistics available to all citizens.

Many governments, NGOs and UN agencies have already launched ambitious public awareness programmes. However, the major challenge of achieving greater outreach remains. A successful, broad-based programme that truly changes social behaviour will require better targeted and more systematic communication.

Training programmes seek to disseminate specific skills that can have immediate practical applications. Examples include: the ability to obtain and interpret climate information, develop emissions inventories, or identify climate-compatible technologies. Training is about learning by doing and this can benefit individuals, communities, and organisations.

International cooperation and exchange can play an important role in boosting ACE efforts. Many governments and stakeholders require access to expertise, funding, and international technical resources to develop their own climate programmes. All countries would benefit from the exchange of best practices, expert staff, and institutional capacity building.