Welcome to the Unsung Climate Hero MOOC!
Environmentally responsible action is important, but it is not always easy. This online course from the University of Oulu takes a hands-on approach to the topic, with your own climate project serving as the course’s central assignment.
Practical action is supported by course theory that explores how climate impacts can be measured and what makes climate action effective. However, taking action alone is not enough if it comes at the expense of well-being. For this reason, the course also examines the relationship between emotions and action, the psychology of behavior change, and the social dimensions of environmental action. In addition, we will reflect on what it means to live a happy and sustainable life in today's world.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this MOOC, you will be able to:
- Understand the concepts of carbon footprints and handprints as tools for measuring climate impacts.
- Understand what constitutes effective climate action.
- Recognize the environmental impacts of your own actions, identify forms of climate action that suit you, and reflect on the emotions associated with taking action.
- Understand the psychological factors that influence behavior change and the social dimensions of action.
- Develop the skills needed for environmentally responsible actions that also support personal well-being.
- Identify ways to maintain and strengthen mental well-being in the midst of the environmental crisis.
Who Is This Course For?
This course is open to anyone interested in the topic, regardless of educational background.
The course is also available in Finnish. You can access the Finnish-language version by clicking here.
This MOOC is provided by the University of Oulu and is free of charge. Successful completion of the course awards 3 ECTS credits.
The course also includes sections from materials developed as part of the Environment and Future in Mind project by Mieli Mental Health Finland and Nyyti.
This MOOC must be completed by 31 July 2027. A new version of the MOOC will be published on 1 August 2027.
Start studying
Degree students of the University of Oulu: register with the course key UnsungCHUniO2026
Students of the Sustainability Studies Network: register with the course key UnsungSUSUniO2026
Other students: register with the course key UnsungOTHEROY2026
