From Clean Energy to Clean Air: OCC Partners with Bute Energy to Inspire Young Climate Leaders

At Our Classroom Climate (OCC), we’re proud to announce a new partnership with Bute Energy to bring hands-on sustainability education to five primary schools near their onshore wind energy parks in Wales.

This collaboration goes far beyond supplying resources—it’s about empowering young people with the knowledge and tools to shape a greener, more sustainable future. Thanks to Bute Energy’s support, these schools will have access to innovative resources like algal bioreactors—cutting-edge technology that helps remove CO₂ and harmful pollutants from the air. These bioreactors provide pupils with a tangible, real-time way to understand climate action, all within the classroom setting.

One of the schools taking part is Llanbister Primary School. Abi Powell, a teacher at the school, shared:

“The new Welsh curriculum is so diverse and everything interlinks – the [Our Classroom Climate] definitely fits the ethos within our school.

We are basing our learning on experiential learning, and these workshops really drive home our [sustainability] message to the children.

It gives them practical activities and the opportunity to speak to experts in their field—which we as teachers feel is much more worthwhile for the children.”

As Bute Energy continues to develop a growing network of onshore wind energy parks—expected to generate enough clean energy to power over 2.2 million homes—they remain committed to creating long-term value beyond renewable energy. This partnership is part of their broader Net Zero Skills Strategy, helping to prepare future generations for meaningful careers in the green economy.

Catrin Leader, who leads on aspects of this strategy for Bute Energy, commented:

“This partnership with Our Classroom Climate adds a new dimension to our efforts driven by Net Zero Skills Strategy, and shows our commitment to delivering long-term value beyond clean energy generation.

At a time when we need to inspire the next generation to take action on climate change, we believe this programme will not only help pupils understand the issues but also give them a new sense of optimism about their future.”

Bringing Sustainability to Life in the Classroom

At the heart of the OCC programme are algal bioreactors—devices that act like 10-year-old oak trees, converting CO₂ into oxygen and cleaning the air. These living, breathing tools not only improve air quality but also help pupils see sustainability in action right in their learning space. Alongside the bioreactors, schools receive access to engaging digital resources and workshops to enhance learning and spark curiosity.

Our founder, Mark Douglas, shared:

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Bute Energy on their sustainability journey. Our programme equips schools with valuable digital resources on climate change, while also giving young people a glimpse into future technologies and career opportunities in the renewable energy sector.

Seeing two Wales-based organisations come together to help build a cleaner, greener economy, and harness our natural resources to create long-term opportunities for all, is truly inspiring.”

Wales needs 25,000 green jobs by 2050—from planners and engineers to project managers. With up to 2,000 of these roles expected to come directly from Bute Energy’s wind energy projects, it’s clear there’s a real opportunity—and a pressing need—to invest in the next generation.

At OCC, we believe education is where that journey begins. And while time is short, partnerships like this show that change is possible—when we work together.