ESM2025 Video Project: Methane

In this ESM2025 video project, the class focused on the interactive methane cycle and its role in the climate system. Supported by an ESM2025 researcher (specialised in atmospheric chemistry) and simple guidance on video production, students investigated where methane comes from, how natural and human sources respond to a changing climate, and why these processes need to be represented interactively in Earth system models. They worked together to produce a home-made video, designed for local stakeholders. The video was presented at a community event and later contributed to the professional ESM2025 final results film.

• Strengthen student understanding of methane as a powerful greenhouse gas and of how its sources and sinks interact with climate.

• Link classroom learning to cutting-edge research, using ESM2025 methane topics to discuss why interactive methane cycles improve our understanding of future climate pathways.

• Build digital and teamwork skills through collaborative planning, filming and editing of a stakeholder-oriented video in the students’ own language.

• Engage local stakeholders by sharing accessible explanations of methane emissions, climate feedbacks and the benefits of reducing anthropogenic methane.

• Feed into a European-level outcome, with the class project serving as raw material for the professionally produced ESM2025 final results video.