On Tuesday, September 30, the Hochschule Karlsruhe hosted a remarkable Guinness World Record attempt to create the largest educational event on climate change. The initiative was organized by Climate Fresk in cooperation with the university and several partners across Germany. The goal was to raise awareness about the climate crisis in an interactive and engaging way, while aiming to break the world record for the biggest climate change lesson ever held.

The event took place along Knielinger Allee, where long rows of tables stretched across the street to accommodate more than 700 participants and over 200 moderators. Using the Klima Puzzle method, which is based on IPCC scientific reports, participants worked together to connect causes and consequences of climate change. It was designed to help people better understand the complexity of the climate system and the urgency of action.

High school students aged 16 and older, including groups from the ESK sustainability course, were involved as stewards. Their job was to make sure participants followed the official rules of the record attempt. No one was allowed to use their phone during the workshop, and if someone left the designated area, they were automatically disqualified. The atmosphere was serious but positive, as hundreds of people focused on one shared goal.

The record attempt officially ran from 13:00 to 16:00 and was followed by a debriefing with the Guinness World Records judge. Although the existing record of 1,117 participants was not broken, the event gathered a large crowd (725 participants) and set a new national record for climate education. The day also included free vegetarian and vegan sandwiches for participants, creating a welcoming and communal atmosphere.

The aim of the event went beyond breaking a record. It was about bringing people together, starting conversations, and inspiring climate action. It showed how education can unite communities and empower individuals to face global challenges. The Guinness World Record may not have been achieved this time, but the spirit of the event and its message about the importance of climate education left a lasting impression.

Written by Aryan Verma & Krithik Manivel (S7ENA – Sustainability & Active Citizenship)