The need for student-centered sustainability education is becoming clearer by the day. Young people who understand and can respond to changes in our natural environment and the stresses they place on our communities will be leaders now and in the future. Additionally, numerous additional benefits for incorporating environmental and sustainability education into the curriculum are emerging from recent research, including increased civic engagement.

A Stanford University review of 119 studies measuring the impact of environmental education found evidence that it builds emotional and social skills, improves environmentally friendly behavior, and increases civic interest and ability to take action. When we educate and equip students to lead action at their school, they are more likely to become ambassadors of social and environmental responsibility, educating their families and broader communities about the value of sustainability.

Read the full article about building student civic engagement through sustainability education by Anisa Heming at Getting Smart.