Experiments in community action

Welcome to the Critical Action Lab! Collaborate with a growing, global network of young people supported by local organizations. Experiment with new ways of taking action on the causes and impacts of climate change. Tell your story of action!

What’s the goal? To create a virtuous circle! Real action in local communities that inspires young people to connect, experiment and tell new stories of positive change.

What's in a name?

The thinking behind "The Critical Action Lab"

Critical —

We’re using critical thinking practice to be more effective on the most important issues of our time. Dive into the 9 Habits of Critical Thinking. (Habit 2: we invite every perspective.)

Action —

We’re doing stuff for real! Exploring what taking action looks like and how we tell stories of action. Head to YouTube for the latest (Habit 7: we imagine the possibilities)

— Lab.

We’re experimenting! It’s a place to try out new ideas and learn from global successes and failures. Check out some of our experiments! (Habit 5: we slow down and reflect)

Interested in learning more? Getting involved?

How does it work?

Every year, the Lab funds a cohort of Fellows to explore what taking action means in different local communities. Game nights, Youth Climate Summits, Climate Cafes, citizen science studies, sustainable fashion shows and everything in between.

Which local organizations?

The founding members are the Natural History Museum of Utah, the Wild Center, Phipps Conservancy and Mass Audubon. Every year we invite new partners to join the Lab and support new cohorts of young people to explore taking action together.

What support?

Fellows get access to critical thinking tools, live training, facilitated design workshops and a growing network of enthusiastic Fellows with frontline experience. Scientists, film-makers and other professionals are also available to provide expert support.

What has happened so far? The founding cohort of 20 Fellows from four organizations created 12 climate actions across the United States. Sign up to hear when applications open for the 2024/25 Lab.