Crossword | Friday, May 28th,2021
Do you have what it takes to be a Green Guardian? Test your knowledge with our environmental literacy crossword!
Going Out to Sea with Marine Science Institute
This week, we wanted to take the time to highlight Marine Science Institute, a partner on the California Environmental Literacy Initiative (CAELI) Community-Based Partner Hub.
“Marine Science Institute is a safe space for students to have hands-on access, get curious, and have their questions answered!”
Jodi Stewart, Land Program Manager, Marine Science Institute
This week, we wanted to take the time to highlight Marine Science Institute, a partner on the California Environmental Literacy Initiative (CAELI) Community-Based Partner Hub.
Marine Science Institute is a nonprofit that was started in 1970 in Redwood City, CA with the mission to get people outside and to have hands-on access to the San Francisco Bay. Their flagship program, The Discovery Voyage, takes students out to the water on their vessel, allowing them to come in contact with live animals, use science equipment, and ask questions!
We are excited to share the interview we had with Jodi Stewart, Land Program Manager at Marine Science Institute (MSI). She has over 10 years of experience working in Environmental Education and eight years with the Marine Science Institute.
Her current role involves overseeing all land-based and online programs. Land-based programs include field trips to MSI, field trips to the coast, and in-school visits. She is the collaborative representative for local community partnerships and is the lead for NGSS documentation.
Check out the video below!
Support & Learn More About Marine Science Institute On Our Blog
Relevant Links
CAELI Community Based Partner Hub | Marine Science Institute
Check out the Marine Science Institute on the California Environmental Literacy Initiative (CAELI) Community-Based Partner Hub hosted by Ten Strands and CAELI, and powered by Green Guardians. The Hub links the K–12 school system with environmental education community-based partners and promotes environmental literacy work across California.
The Marine Science Institute provides engaging and interactive hands-on adventures with San Francisco Bay Area marine life. Led by a team of expert marine science educators, these experiences impact students of all ages, inspiring respect, and stewardship for the marine environment.
Academy @ Home for Pod Groups | Marine Science Institute
Each session students will spend their time learning about Marine Science.
This program is designed for learning pod groups and is brought to the home/site of that group. Students will observe live animals found in San Francisco Bay and Northern California Coastal habitats each day. Students will learn marine science concepts through hands-on activities that further their understanding of the Scientific Method.
In Person Group Programs | Marine Science Institute
The Marine Science Institute provides a scientific experience built on California standards-based activities and a memorable voyage into nature for students of all economic backgrounds. The Marine Science Institute puts students in physical contact with the SF Bay and coast environments to help cultivate their natural sense of curiosity, enrich their understanding of science, and foster a responsibility to protect the environment.
Online Group Programs | Marine Science Institute
Marine Science Institute is here to support teachers and parents by offering engaging, online group lessons that bring science to life! MSI Online Inland Voyages are interactive, inquiry-based programs taught by expert marine science educators, bringing the wonder of local marine habitats of the San Francisco Bay and Northern California Coasts directly to your students. Exploration is done completely remote, using footage from the MSI aquarium and in the field, Google Slides, Nearpod, and Zoom. Teachers may also select the virtual meeting platform if desired.
In Person Classes | Marine Science Insitute
Afternoon Ecology: This “afterschool” educational program is designed to foster the natural curiosity of young minds. Students learn about local habitats around San Francisco Bay while working in a team with their peers. This program has a variety of themes that can be taken either as a series or independently. Themes include Bay Area Habitats, Marine Science Exploration, and Bay vs. Ocean Animals.
Online Classes | Marine Science Institute
Drop In, Daily, or Once-A-Week classes available to engage and educate your Jr. marine biologist!
Make a Donation | Marine Science Institute
Your investment in Marine Science Institute helps educate more than 60,000 people of all ages each year in marine science and environment stewardship through our School Programs, Family Events, Marine Science Camps, and Coastal Clean-Up Days.
Public Events | Marine Science Institute
Find and register for upcoming events at the Marine Science Institute.
California Environmental Literacy Initiative (CAELI)
CAELI, led by Ten Strands, works statewide with guidance from a leadership council to create systems change in support of environmental literacy with a focus on access, equity, and cultural relevance for all students.
News and Events
Zoolab: Naturetown
Jun. 01, 2021 Brent Culture Service
Join ZooLab for a session to learn about how you can help your local environment.
Biodiversity and Climate Crisis Summit – On the road to COP26
Jun. 03, 2021 United Nations Association Climate and Oceans
Come and join us at this important event where we will have a local and global dialogue between the general public, Scientists, and representatives of different UK Government Agencies, such as the Environment Agency, Natural England, Sussex Inshore Fisheries, and Conservation Authority.
Take Action Against Invasive Species! webinar
Jun. 10, 2021 Nimbus Fish Hatchery
Find out what an invasive species is and how to fight back against their spread.
Outdoor Learning Case Study: Park Day School
May 18, 2021 Ten Strands
Karen Cowe, Ten Strands’ CEO, and Linda Livers, Ten Strands’ consultant, interviewed three staff members of the Park Day School in Oakland, California: Angela Taylor, head of school; Jennifer Cooper, facilities manager; and Josie Shapiro, director of admissions.
Combating carbon emissions with soil microbes
May 20, 2021 EHN
A new study highlights the relationship between seasonal climate variability and soil microbial communities.
SDGs: Greater urgency needed to meet environmental goals, improved data likely key
May 22, 2021 UN News
Countries are on track to miss the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) relating to environmental protection, two UN entities warn in a new report issued on Saturday to coincide with the International Day for Biological Diversity.
Pressure builds for schools to put climate change study on curriculum
May 26, 2021 Reuters
MIDDLE EAST – International bodies and pressure groups are calling for climate change studies to become a standard part of the school curriculum worldwide, saying the step is vital to reach targets on cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
In California, extreme heat and ozone pollution hit poor communities hardest
May 26, 2021 National Geographic
A new study identifies places in the state where the climate-intensified health risks are linked.
In South Africa, a zero-waste food bus hopes to drive away hunger
May 27, 2021 World Economic Forum
When Sidney Beukes got his bus driver’s license, he never imagined himself behind the wheel of a 40-year-old school bus that has been turned into a mobile grocery store serving low-income residents of Johannesburg…
International Energy Agency Unveils Ambitious Roadmap to Net Zero Emissions By 2050
May 27, 2021 Earth.org
In a new report, the International Energy Agency (IEA) says that to achieve net-zero emissions, all new investments in fossil fuel projects must be ended. It calls for the rapid adoption of renewable energy and a research and development program to develop future technologies.
Q & A With Jodi Stewart | Marine Science Institute
This week, we are excited to share an interview we had with Jodi Stewart, Land Program Manager at Marine Science Institute (MSI). Jodi has her B.S. in Biology from the University of Wisconsin and Undergrad Honors Thesis from Deakin University, Australia. Prior to joining the MSI team, she worked as a wetland delineation field assistant, quality assurance lab technician, and educator for the YMCA. She has over 10 years of experience working in Environmental Education and eight years with Marine Science Institute!
She has held many roles with MSI, from educator, development assistant, and school programs coordinator. Her current role oversees all land-based and online programs. Land-based programs include field trips to MSI, field trips to the coast, and in-school visits. She is the collaborative representative for local community partnerships and is the lead for NGSS documentation.
Check out our interview below as we discuss the background of Marine Science Institute, its program offerings, and how you can get involved!
Tell us about Marine Science Institute.
Marine Science Institute is a nonprofit based in Redwood City. It started in 1970 with the main mission to get people out and to have hands-on access to the San Francisco Bay. Before that, there were not many experiences like ours for students. That’s really who we cater to – students during the school year. We also have a pretty strong summer camp where students in kindergarten through high school participate in our programs.
Why is it important for students to have hands-on learning experiences?
It’s important because it gets them excited and curious! Hands-on, in-person experiences help reach students across language barriers. Their participation with school-based hands-on learning also helps bridge gaps with students who might not have the opportunity on their own. This is a safe space for students to have hands-on access, get curious, and have their questions answered! It’s a great way to get them excited, and when they are excited, they care, and they want to help protect this special place.
What goes into the design and creation of MSI’s curriculum and learning experiences?
The main things we use in our curriculum are the habitats and animals that are right here. We are keeping it a local experience to tie in these overarching themes. This is something the teachers can pick when they’re coming to our classes – they might choose a program that focuses on food webs, and so during the program, we’re able to tie that into every single activity. Some other common themes are biodiversity, adaptations, and we can even go through the scientific theory of making a hypothesis, collecting data, and having students practice providing and presenting that data.
What have traditionally been some of your most popular programs? Why?
Our flagship program is the Discovery Voyage, that’s how we got started, with our boat. Our current boat, Robert G. Brownlee, was not our first ship. Previous to Robert G. Brownlee we had an old WWII ship, the Inland Seas, that we would take kids out on! The program today is very similar, the students operate the equipment and go through stations, learning about the benthos, plankton, hydrology, and Ichthyology. We have had kids and parents come by and recollect their experiences with us. All of our experiences are memorable, but the boat really hits home because you’re on the water and that’s just a different experience.
The boat program is grade-dependent, though. If you’re under 4th grade you can’t go on the boat, so we have a land-based program that mirrors that, so that is especially popular for 3rd grade. But if there is a transportation barrier and kids can’t come out, we also have programs that take our animals to the classroom so that they are still getting a hands-on experience with these habitats. They may not be able to go out to the rocky shore if they live in Antioch, so we are happy to bring those animals to them.
How has MSI and its offerings changed over the past year? What will this look like moving forward?
When the pandemic first started, we didn’t have much for online programming. Our focus has been on in-person, hands-on experiences. The last year has given us the chance to flex our wings and try some new things. Our online programs were introduced because of COVID-19 restrictions and the virtual learning schools offered for the fall. We mirror our programs during an online lesson with videos of our animals from our aquarium, out in the field, and footage from local habitats. We provide the experience in a different way. The programs are still inquiry-based so it’s asking them those questions about their observations and previous knowledge so we can build upon it. We’ve also expanded our reach. Thanks to online education, we’ve even been able to reach students all over California, the US, and Asia!
We’ve offered some extensions of our programming this last year. We were able to offer more to homeschool students since they are not tied to the same online schedules that public school students are. We have increased our homeschool reach, as well as after school, offering programs on a weekly drop-in basis. We have also been able to expand our public programs for families, so we extended a younger program during the week, and offer more family trips on the weekends.
Moving forward, it’s so unknown. I think teachers are planning to bring kids out on field trips, but I know there are some hoops we will need to figure out. We are planning on keeping mask requirements right now to keep everyone comfortable. I think there is room for online education in the future, but I don’t know what that looks like – it could be an add-on or a standalone option. Another thing to consider is wildfire season, homeschool/pod groups shifting to online learning, and continue to monitor changes to public health with COVID-19.
How does MSI partner with districts and schools?
We are in quite a few different partnerships or collaborations. We are working with San Francisco Unified School District, San Mateo COE, Santa Clara COE, so we are partnering with their organizations to provide a uniform approach to getting kids to experience something since some teachers may need additional support. We partner with a few schools that way, and through other collaborations, we’re working more closely with Mountain View Whisman School where every 4th and 5th-grade student gets an experience either through the classroom or on a field trip. Same with the East Palo Alto Charter School. In this collaboration, we make sure we reach every grade. Our partnership depth varies for each collaboration, but we are in overarching partnerships to hopefully get those programs out there.
Do you often have repeat students for your programs?
One partnership I forgot to mention is with John F. Kennedy Middle School in Redwood City, and we see every student from the 6th grade for the entire school year. They go and collect data and then compare data between different seasons. We are able to do that work through a specific grant. A lot of our programs are one-time programs. We could provide some type of experience multiple times, they would see for a program – such as an in the classroom, a field trip, and a final in-classroom program – like a bookended type of program. We mostly see the same teachers every year, and we are incorporated into their curriculum.
What has been the response of the community?
Overall, the community has been super supportive. I was touched by the donations that we received from canceled camp registrations where a lot of people opted to donate their registration fees rather than receive a refund. That was incredibly moving.
Schools have embraced the online programs because that is what we needed to do, and feedback from teachers has been super appreciative of what we are offering and the level of education that the kids are receiving from the programs.
What’s been the most memorable experience at MSI over the past year?
The outpouring of support when our ship needed emergency maintenance was very memorable for me. The boat couldn’t run, we had to pull it out. We have the scheduled maintenance built into our budget for every other year and an emergency haul-out is quite expensive. That was the most memorable moment, being able to come together and have that support.
Also, a fun animal that we caught, which I think was the first documented bat ray in San Francisco Bay that was an albino! That was quite a memorable catch.
How can the community best support the work MSI is doing?
All of it! Becoming aware of who we are, word of mouth is definitely the biggest way people hear about us – through family recommendations for camp, through teacher recommendations – so there’s that part of it. What families can do is to join us on a weekend out on the boat or in our canoes, or even go out tide pooling. That is a way we can inspire their students, getting them outside. A lot of the time the students coming out are already engaged, and they are excited about it so we’re able to help them to deepen their knowledge and get more excited about it.
We also have volunteer opportunities for people, as well as corporate groups that are welcome to volunteer on our site. Even if it’s just pulling weeds, it helps so much to have these volunteers or corporate groups come.
As we are a non-profit we do rely on funding and donations heavily for our programs to survive so if you’re unable to come out, donations are always appreciated.
PHOTO CREDIT: Erick Lee Productions
Relevant Links
CAELI Community Based Partner Hub | Marine Science Institute
Check out the Marine Science Institute on the California Environmental Literacy Initiative (CAELI) Community-Based Partner Hub hosted by Ten Strands and CAELI, and powered by Green Guardians. The Hub links the K–12 school system with environmental education community-based partners and promotes environmental literacy work across California.
The Marine Science Institute provides engaging and interactive hands-on adventures with San Francisco Bay Area marine life. Led by a team of expert marine science educators, these experiences impact students of all ages, inspiring respect, and stewardship for the marine environment.
Academy @ Home for Pod Groups | Marine Science Institute
Each session students will spend their time learning about Marine Science. This program is designed for learning pod groups and is brought to the home/site of that group. Students will observe live animals found in San Francisco Bay and Northern California Coastal habitats each day. Students will learn marine science concepts through hands-on activities that further their understanding of the Scientific Method.
In Person Group Programs | Marine Science Institute
The Marine Science Institute provides a scientific experience built on California standards-based activities and a memorable voyage into nature for students of all economic backgrounds. The Marine Science Institute puts students in physical contact with the SF Bay and coast environments to help cultivate their natural sense of curiosity, enrich their understanding of science, and foster a responsibility to protect the environment.
Online Group Programs | Marine Science Institute
Marine Science Institute supports teachers and parents by offering engaging, online group lessons that bring science to life! MSI Online Inland Voyages are interactive, inquiry-based programs taught by expert marine science educators, bringing the wonder of local marine habitats of the San Francisco Bay and Northern California Coasts directly to your students.
In Person Classes | Marine Science Insitute
Afternoon Ecology: This “afterschool” educational program is designed to foster the natural curiosity of young minds. Students learn about local habitats around San Francisco Bay while working in a team with their peers. This program has a variety of themes that can be taken either as a series or independently. Themes include Bay Area Habitats, Marine Science Exploration, and Bay vs. Ocean Animals.
Online Classes | Marine Science Institute
Drop In, Daily, or Once-A-Week classes available to engage and educate your Jr. marine biologist!
Make a Donation | Marine Science Institute
Your investment in Marine Science Institute helps educate more than 60,000 people of all ages each year in marine science and environment stewardship through our School Programs, Family Events, Marine Science Camps, and Coastal Clean-Up Days.
Public Events | Marine Science Institute
Find and register for upcoming events at the Marine Science Institute.
California Environmental Literacy Initiative (CAELI)
CAELI, led by Ten Strands, works statewide with guidance from a leadership council to create systems change in support of environmental literacy with a focus on access, equity, and cultural relevance for all students.
15 Actions for Green Living Checklist
Download and share the Green Living checklist!
Crossword | Friday, May 14th, 2021
Do you have what it takes to be a Green Guardian? Test your knowledge with our environmental literacy crossword!
Taking Action Through Environmental Literacy
We are continuing our Green Living series this week with Part 2: 15 Actions for Green Living Checklist! In case you missed last week’s bulletin, we discussed how individual actions of environmental literacy can play a major role in the fight against climate change. Read last week’s bulletin here.
We are continuing our Green Living series this week with Part 2: 15 Actions for Green Living Checklist!
In case you missed last week’s bulletin, we discussed how individual actions of environmental literacy can play a major role in the fight against climate change. Read last week’s bulletin here.
This week, we wanted to provide a green living checklist that can serve as a guide for your green journey! From creating a greener home, implementing lifestyle changes, or actively engaging with your community, our checklist is a great place to get started as you begin acting on your environmental literacy!
Read the full article to see some Green Guardians favorites here!
Looking for some inspiration? Watch the video below:
Relevant Links
How Clean is Your Electric Vehicle?
5 Climate Action Chores for Kids | The Climate Reality Project Blog
The Natural Resources Defense Council: Guide to Talking With Kids of All Ages About Climate Change
News and Events
EECP Info Session
May 20, 2021 AEOE
Are you interested in becoming certified as an environmental educator? Considering applying to California’s Environmental Educator Certification Program (EECP) and want to learn more? Join our info session to hear an overview of the program. Be sure to bring your questions!
Watershed Education in our Urban Ecosystem
May 20, 2021 The Watershed Project
Our Ecosystem, Our Community: Greening Urban Watersheds is a hands-on, flexible middle school curriculum. Teachers will gain lesson plans for 5 in-class (distance or in-person) lessons and 7 homework/asynchronous assignments, details on where to obtain lesson materials, and how to teach outdoor science and support students’ mental health even from home.
Climate Champions Virtual Summit
May 22, 2021 UC San Diego Social Sciences Climate Action Lab
The session is open to all who share an interest in and commitment to climate education, including high school and college students, teachers and administrators, and community educators.
Installing solar panels over California’s canals could yield water, land, air and climate payoffs
May 03, 2021 The Conversation
Climate change and water scarcities are front and center in the western U.S. The region’s climate is warming, a severe multi-year drought is underway and groundwater supplies are being overpumped in many locations.
New Jersey Adopts Climate Change As Part Of Core Curriculum In All Public Schools
May 07, 2021 WBUR
Last year, New Jersey became the first state in the nation to require all its public schools to adopt climate change education into its curriculum.
Biden Enlists Ranchers, Indigenous Communities to Conserve 30% of Land and Water
May 10, 2021 Earth.org
The Biden administration will this week unveil a plan to conserve 30% of US lands and waters by 2030. The plan offers a strategy to encourage indigenous tribes, farmers, and ranchers to voluntarily protect land, including by enrolling territory in existing federal conservation programs and the creation of new parks near urban areas.
How global trade can save lives and livelihoods – and help protect the planet
May 12, 2021 World Economic Forum
This was the view of the panelists at the World Economic Forum’s latest Agenda Dialogues session on the Global Trade Outlook.
Living Near Fracking Wells Is Linked to Higher Rate of Heart Attacks, Study Finds
May 12, 2021 Environmental Health News
Living among fracking wells is linked to higher rates of hospitalizations and deaths due to heart attacks, according to a new study. The study, published in the Journal of Environmental Research, compared heart attack rates in Pennsylvania counties with fracking to those without.
5 easy things you can do to take some pressure off the planet
May 13, 2021 National Geographic
Look for Earth-friendly actions to take at home, from installing a water-filtering rain garden to repairing rather than replacing broken items.
New York’s Public Power Bill Could Be a Model for the Rest of the Country
May 14, 2021 Gizmodo
Two years ago, New York enshrined the most ambitious statewide climate targets in the country. The legislation, called the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, requires the state to completely decarbonize its electric grid by 2040.
Checklist | 15 Actions for Green Living
This week, we wanted to continue the conversation about acting as an environmentally literate citizen by living a greener lifestyle! From shifting to sustainable products to researching local climate issues, there are a million things you can do to transition to a greener lifestyle. To eliminate some of the stress of getting started, we have prepared a checklist that can serve as a guide for your green journey!
Need some more information before you get started? Visit last week’s blog to read more about the connection between environmental literacy and a green lifestyle.
For a Greener Home:
❑ Turn off and unplug appliances such as TVs, lamps, computers, and phones when not in use
❑ Regularly replace filters in heaters, air conditioning, and dryers
❑ Curate gardens with native plants and trees
❑ Create a compost bin and reduce food waste
❑ Buy non-toxic and plant-based cleaning products
While we encourage people to use products they are comfortable with, these are some Green Guardians favorites for a greener home: Blueland for non-toxic, plastic free home cleaning products, OhmConnect to save on energy bills and consumption, Native Plants Finder
For a Greener Lifestyle:
❑ Buy less – take a minimalist approach to purchases
❑ Read and share books on climate change and eco-living
❑ Shop locally for produce and shop second-hand for clothing and décor
❑ Drive or rent an electric, hybrid, or hydrogen car to reduce CO2 emissions
❑ Use zero-waste alternatives such as glass straws, reusable cotton rounds, and detergent
Some Green Guardians favorites for a greener lifestyle: A Better Planet: Forty Big Ideas for a Sustainable Future, Climate Change Podcasts, How to Save a Planet, Climate-Friendly Supermarkets, Loop Store, Thrift Books
For Active Engagement:
❑ Encourage schools to:
▫ Switch to solar energy
▫ Create green spaces (I.e., gardens, recycling centers)
▫ Offer plant-based meals
▫ Ditch single-use plastic
❑ Join a climate activist group such as Climate Reality and Citizen’s Climate Lobby
❑ Educate yourself and vote for candidates that have a progressive platform
❑ Create or join a sustainability/green team at your workplace or in your community
❑ Discuss green living and climate change with friends and family to encourage action
Some Green Guardians favorites for active engagement: The Natural Resources Defense Council: Guide to Talking With Kids of All Ages About Climate Change, Climate Reality Chapters, One Green Planet Petitions
Relevant Links
How Clean is Your Electric Vehicle?
Electric cars tend to produce less carbon pollution than gas-powered ones—but just how much less? This tool allows you to see how clean your electric vehicle is compared to those in your local area!
5 Climate Action Chores for Kids | The Climate Reality Project Blog
While many kids may not be fully equipped to truly tackle the science and stakes of the climate crisis until they’re a bit older, you can lay a strong foundation for future learning and action by engaging your child in some age-appropriate activities that will instill a sense of environmental responsibility that they will carry with them into adulthood.
Established in 2007 and headquartered in London, UK, Climate Action establishes and builds partnerships between business, government, and public bodies to accelerate international sustainable development and advance the ‘green economy’.
The Climate Reality Project has the mission to create a global sense of urgency on climate change and catalyze a planet-wide shift to clean energy to solve it. Founded and chaired by Nobel Laureate and former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, they share the truth of climate disruption with communities around the world and empower people everywhere with the knowledge and tools to help create a sustainable future.
TerraCycle is Eliminating the Idea of Waste®. They develop ways to make things that are typically non-recyclable nationally recyclable such as chewing gum, cigarette butts, and even dirty diapers. They integrate recycled materials into new products and create platforms that move consumers from disposable, single-use packaging to durable, reusable packaging without sacrificing the economics and convenience that make disposable products desirable.
Environmental Literacy in Action
This week, we wanted to take some time to highlight how individual actions of environmental literacy can play a major role in the fight against climate change.
This week, we wanted to take some time to highlight how individual actions of environmental literacy can play a major role in the fight against climate change.
There is a common misconception that fighting climate change is too big an issue to be solved by one person. This view can often provide hesitancy from teachers to discuss climate change as an important factor in their environmental education programs. As stated in A Blueprint for Environmental Literacy (2015),
“An environmentally literate person has the capacity to act individually and with others to support ecologically sound, economically prosperous, and equitable communities for present and future generations.”
– A Blueprint for Environmental Literacy (2015)
Check out this week’s article to get started on your green living journey and start putting environmental literacy into action! Read the Article
Want to see Part 2 of this series: 15 Actions for Green Living Checklist? Be sure to sign up for our newsletter so you don’t miss it!
Relevant Links
4AIR is an aviation sustainability company assisting stakeholders in private aviation implement meaningful sustainability programs that meet and exceed industry commitments. 4AIR assists with environmental regulatory compliance and sources independent review to assure compliance with voluntary and regulatory commitments.
5 Climate Action Chores for Kids | The Climate Reality Project Blog
While many kids may not be fully equipped to truly tackle the science and stakes of the climate crisis until they’re a bit older, you can lay a strong foundation for future learning and action by engaging your child in some age-appropriate activities that will instill a sense of environmental responsibility that they will carry with them into adulthood.
Established in 2007 and headquartered in London, UK, Climate Action establishes and builds partnerships between business, government, and public bodies to accelerate international sustainable development and advance the ‘green economy’.
The Climate Reality Project has the mission to create a global sense of urgency on climate change and catalyze a planet-wide shift to clean energy to solve it. Founded and chaired by Nobel Laureate and former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, they share the truth of climate disruption with communities around the world and empower people everywhere with the knowledge and tools to help create a sustainable future.
ENERGY STAR® is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency, providing simple, credible, and unbiased information that consumers and businesses rely on to make well-informed decisions. Thousands of industrial, commercial, utility, state, and local organizations—including nearly 40% of the Fortune 500®—partner with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to deliver cost-saving energy efficiency solutions that protect the climate while improving air quality and protecting public health.
SunPower designs all-in-one residential and commercial solar and storage solutions backed by personal customer service and the industry’s most comprehensive warranty.
TerraCycle is Eliminating the Idea of Waste®. They develop ways to make things that are typically non-recyclable nationally recyclable. In their research, they have found that few things are beyond recycling, and have found solutions for chewing gum, cigarette butts, and even dirty diapers. They integrate recycled materials into new products, such as working with some of the world’s biggest brands to turn ocean plastic into shampoo bottles. Or toothpaste tubes into playgrounds. They create platforms that move consumers from disposable, single-use packaging to durable, reusable packaging without sacrificing the economics and convenience that make disposable products desirable.
Terrapass is dedicated to the fight against climate change. Their mission is to provide the resources necessary for companies and individuals to understand and take responsibility for their climate impact through offsetting carbon emissions.
Tesla’s mission is to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy through increasingly affordable electric vehicles in addition to renewable energy generation and storage. To achieve a sustainable energy future, Tesla also created infinitely scalable energy products: Powerwall, Powerpack, and Solar Roof. As the world’s only vertically integrated energy company, Tesla continues to innovate, scale, and reduce the costs of commercial and grid-scale systems, with the goal of ultimately getting us to 100% renewable energy grids.
News and Events
AEOE Statewide Conference 2021
May 14 – 15, 2021, Online
The spring statewide conference is Association for Environmental & Outdoor Education’s (AEOE) signature event. The annual statewide conference brings together several hundred environmental and outdoor education professionals from across California to participate in professional learning workshops, breakout sessions, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Children Thrive Outside
May 11, 2021, National Wildlife Federation
New America and the National Wildlife Federation are teaming up for a webinar on May 11 that will examine why investing in and supporting quality outdoor learning in early care and education should be a priority and explore how to make it a reality for all young children.
Making Environmental Education Authentic and Locally Relevant
May 15, 2021, Scientific Adventures for Girls
Learn how to set up a series of lessons where students take opposing roles and defend their position while debating the pros/cons of an environmental proposal.
Virtual Open House – Climate Change Essentials for All Educators
May 20, 2021, Presidio Graduate School
Climate Change Essentials for All Educators is a facilitated, nine-week virtual course from Presidio Graduate School designed to equip K-12 teachers with the tools to incorporate climate change education into their current curriculum—regardless of the subject area, grade level, or state standards.
Is Biden’s New Emissions Reduction Target Good Enough?
Apr. 27, 2021, Earth.org
The US aims to achieve an emissions reduction target of 50-52% from 2005 levels in net greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. This is the new national goal declared by President Joe Biden.
NOAA’s New Climate Normals Show the U.S. Has Never Been Hotter
May 04, 2021, Gizmodo
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration want us to know it’s not the 1980s anymore. On Tuesday, it announced new 30-year averages for temperature and precipitation. Unsurprisingly, the “new normal” is hotter.
RUSD earns eight of 18 Green Ribbon Awards from the California Department of Education
May 05, 2021, IECN
Three years running! Morris Elementary School earned California Green Ribbon Schools Gold Level recognition for the third straight year when the awards were announced on April 22, 2021.
How Rap Duo EARTHGANG Is Educating Kids On Land Conservation & Inner-City Gardens
May 05, 2021, Atmos
The environmentally-conscious Atlanta rap duo are expanding their sustainability efforts beyond music and giving back to the Southwest Atlanta community.
Climate Change: Everything You Need to Know
May 05, 2021, EcoWatch
Climate change is actually not a new phenomenon. Scientists have been studying the connection between human activity and the effect on the climate since the 1800s, although it took until the 1950s to find evidence suggesting a link.
Greening California Starts With Motor Vehicles
May 06, 2021, Sierra
No other state stood up to Donald Trump as much and as often as California. The nation’s wealthiest and most populous state sued Trump and his administration 110 times.
The government has pledged over $800m to fight natural disasters. It could be revolutionary — if done right
May 06, 2021, The Conversation
To help Australia adapt to climate change and manage the disasters that come with it, the federal government this week pledged A$600 million towards establishing the National Recovery and Resilience Agency and $210 million for the Australian Climate Service initiative.
Crossword | Friday, May 7th, 2021
Do you have what it takes to be a Green Guardian? Test your knowledge with our environmental literacy crossword!
Green Living to Combat Climate Change
As we look at ways to advance environmental literacy for students across the nation, climate change is at the front of many students’ minds. However, most teachers don’t teach climate change, either because they feel that climate change is too daunting to discuss in the classroom, or that it doesn’t apply to their subject matter (NPR/Ipsos 2019). Many others see the large systems issues that need addressing and identify them as being too big to confront individually. But students want to be educated about these issues and want to learn how they can make a difference. Think about it, each person making one small act could equal 7 billion actions to fight climate change! By taking the step to learn more as an individual – whether you are a student, teacher, parent, or policy-maker – you can increase the momentum for change wherever you reside. No matter how big or small your actions are, each step towards a more sustainable lifestyle can make a difference in the fight against climate change and the advancement of environmental literacy for all citizens of the world.
“An environmentally literate person has the capacity to act individually and with others to support ecologically sound, economically prosperous, and equitable communities for present and future generations.”
– A Blueprint for Environmental Literacy (2015)
The climate crisis is an omnipresent issue in our world today. From global temperatures rising to an influx of natural disasters, people across the world are experiencing the devastating effects of human contribution to our environment. It can be overwhelming to find a way to reverse or lessen the effects of climate change in our daily lives, so we wanted to share some ways that individuals can make a difference through sustainable changes in their routines.
One of the easiest ways to get started on your green living journey is by minimizing your use of single-use plastics. Items such as plastic water bottles or grocery bags are often used out of convenience, but utilizing items such as reusable bottles or bags is a simple way to encourage businesses to stop supplying single-use plastics as well as limiting personal use of these items. Items such as personal care products, toys, and home cleaning products also fall into the “single-use” plastic category, so if alternatives are not easily accessible, using resources such as Terracycle’s Free Recycling programs that partner with notable brands (Hasbro Toy, Burt’s Bees, Colgate, and many more!) is a great way to get started. It’s as easy as printing out one of their free shipping labels and using an old package mailer or box lying around the house to ship them to the recycling centers that can easily process the materials.
Everyone has heard that swapping to reusable materials is always a good way to transition to a green lifestyle, but did you know that you can swap out items in your home for ones that are more energy-efficient and cost-effective? For example, you can replace incandescent and CFL light bulbs with LED bulbs. You can also swap out older appliances and buy Energy Star models, running them during non-peak hours to save on your monthly bill! Another option if you are in the process of looking for a new home or renovating your current home, is to insulate your home and install double-pane windows. This allows for heat-loss prevention and can lower your overall heating bills.
Making all of these changes to alternative, eco-friendly products is necessary for the future of our planet, but having a green lifestyle is one that supports organizations and continuous learning about how our actions can contribute to climate change. Encouraging your local businesses to support and stock green products or serve more plant-based meals is a fun way to start conversations and educate others about the climate crisis. You can also create conversations in the workplace about divesting from fossil fuel companies and investing in renewable energy companies such as SunPower or Tesla. You can buy carbon offsets when traveling by plane, ship, or rental car through Terrapass or 4AIR to make your commute more climate-friendly. All of these small actions add up, especially when we share our thoughts and concerns with others. The company we keep usually shares the same values, it just takes one person to start a conversation and inspire change!
If you want to continue learning and become an advocate for green living, it’s important to seek out information about climate solutions as well as green practices happening in your local community! Check out the list of resources below, and feel free to share this article with a friend to get them started on their green lifestyle journey!
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Relevant Links
4AIR is an aviation sustainability company assisting stakeholders in private aviation implement meaningful sustainability programs that meet and exceed industry commitments. 4AIR assists with environmental regulatory compliance and sources independent review to assure compliance with voluntary and regulatory commitments.
5 Climate Action Chores for Kids | The Climate Reality Project Blog
While many kids may not be fully equipped to truly tackle the science and stakes of the climate crisis until they’re a bit older, you can lay a strong foundation for future learning and action by engaging your child in some age-appropriate activities that will instill a sense of environmental responsibility that they will carry with them into adulthood.
Established in 2007 and headquartered in London, UK, Climate Action establishes and builds partnerships between business, government, and public bodies to accelerate international sustainable development and advance the ‘green economy’.
The Climate Reality Project has the mission to create a global sense of urgency on climate change and catalyze a planet-wide shift to clean energy to solve it. Founded and chaired by Nobel Laureate and former U.S. Vice President Al Gore, they share the truth of climate disruption with communities around the world and empower people everywhere with the knowledge and tools to help create a sustainable future.
ENERGY STAR® is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency, providing simple, credible, and unbiased information that consumers and businesses rely on to make well-informed decisions. Thousands of industrial, commercial, utility, state, and local organizations—including nearly 40% of the Fortune 500®—partner with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to deliver cost-saving energy efficiency solutions that protect the climate while improving air quality and protecting public health.
SunPower designs all-in-one residential and commercial solar and storage solutions backed by personal customer service and the industry’s most comprehensive warranty.
TerraCycle is Eliminating the Idea of Waste®. They develop ways to make things that are typically non-recyclable nationally recyclable. In their research, they have found that few things are beyond recycling, and have found solutions for chewing gum, cigarette butts, and even dirty diapers. They integrate recycled materials into new products, such as working with some of the world’s biggest brands to turn ocean plastic into shampoo bottles. Or toothpaste tubes into playgrounds. They create platforms that move consumers from disposable, single-use packaging to durable, reusable packaging without sacrificing the economics and convenience that make disposable products desirable.
Terrapass is dedicated to the fight against climate change. Their mission is to provide the resources necessary for companies and individuals to understand and take responsibility for their climate impact through offsetting carbon emissions.
Tesla’s mission is to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy through increasingly affordable electric vehicles in addition to renewable energy generation and storage. To achieve a sustainable energy future, Tesla also created infinitely scalable energy products: Powerwall, Powerpack, and Solar Roof. As the world’s only vertically integrated energy company, Tesla continues to innovate, scale, and reduce the costs of commercial and grid-scale systems, with the goal of ultimately getting us to 100% renewable energy grids.