FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
September 29, 2026
CONTACT:
Camille Soliva, Communications Specialist
SB 1048 establishes diploma distinction recognizing climate knowledge, green career preparation and hands-on learning
SACRAMENTO, CA – Gov. Gavin Newsom today signed SB 1048 (Becker) into law, establishing a California State Seal of Climate Literacy for high school students. The new diploma distinction will recognize students who demonstrate climate knowledge and the ability to apply what they learn through hands-on projects addressing real-world challenges. The Seal makes climate literacy a recognized achievement in California, alongside civic engagement and biliteracy.
To earn the Seal, students will complete coursework across subject areas and a hands-on project that applies their learning to real-world challenges in their communities. The Seal will give California schools a statewide framework for recognizing this work, including projects that build skills relevant to a changing climate and the green economy.
The legislation reflects support from education, youth, parent, and environmental organizations across California. SB 1048 is co-sponsored by Ten Strands, UndauntedK12, the California State PTA and Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action (SVYCA).
Advocates from across the state celebrated with the following statements:
“I thank Gov. Newsom for signing SB 1048 and helping California take this important step forward. California has long led the nation in climate action. SB 1048 ensures we are also leading in climate education by preparing the next generation with the knowledge and real-world experience they need to meet the challenges ahead. Climate change will shape the future of our economy, workforce, and communities. This Seal sends a clear message: climate literacy matters, and California students are ready to lead
-Senator Josh Becker.
“We’re grateful to Gov. Newsom for signing SB 1048 and to Senator Becker for championing this bill and empowering young people across California. Students care deeply about the climate crisis, and we’re hungry for real knowledge and opportunities to apply what we learn in meaningful ways. SB 1048 recognizes that students should understand the challenges we face to be ready to help solve them. The Seal also signals to colleges and future employers that we have valuable skills and real-world experience.”
-Aahaan Jain, co-lead of Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action’s State Advocacy team and student at Lynbrook High School.
“Through our work with young people across California, we see students eager to lead on climate solutions. The Seal of Climate Literacy recognizes and elevates the high-quality climate learning already underway in schools and in co-curricular settings. And it affirms the importance of this work and students’ role in building a climate-ready California. We thank Gov. Newsom for signing SB 1048 and Senator Becker for his leadership in bringing this vision to life.”
-Andra Yeghoian, Chief Innovation Officer at Ten Strands.
“The future – not just the weather, but our economy, our jobs, our health, our quality of life – will be deeply shaped by a changing climate. Every student needs the knowledge, skills, and agency to build a future in the world they’re inheriting – and to help shape what comes next. The Seal of Climate Literacy elevates these essential competencies for a student’s education and gives them a meaningful credential for college and the workforce. Gov. Newsom’s signing of SB 1048, alongside Senator Becker’s leadership, is a critical investment in California’s future.”
-Jonathan Klein, CEO and Co-Founder of UndauntedK12
“California students and families are experiencing the impacts of climate change firsthand, from wildfires and flooding to extreme heat. Students deserve an education that connects what they learn in the classroom to the world around them and gives them the tools to make a difference in their communities. The California State PTA is proud to support the Seal of Climate Literacy and applauds Governor Newsom and Senator Becker for making it a reality.”
-Heather Ippolito, President of the California State PTA.
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