Environmental Education Resources

The website Environmental Education Virtual Field Trips for Nature Lovers has a number of excellent virtual field trips, for example The United States Botanic Garden virtual tour; the Gardens of Versailles; a Living Work of Art and the Foundation De Monet (Thanks Cassie, from AL in US, for that website recommendation!).

Now, whilst we would all rather visit the places in person, for most of use that's not going to happen any time soon. So the next best thing is a virtual field trip. So, why are virtual field trips so awesome? First off, they are all about making educational experiences accessible to everyone. No matter where you are, how much money you've got, or any physical limitations you might have, virtual field trips bring the world to your fingertips. It's like going on an adventure without even leaving your seat!

And they're affordable. That means more schools and students can get in on the action without breaking the bank. Flexibility is another big perk. No need to worry about schedules or conflicting activities. It's all about convenience. So check out these virtual field trips: they're packed with amazing videos, 360-degree images, and even augmented reality. You can immerse yourself in these virtual environments, move things around, and really get a feel for the subject you're learning about. It's like being right there, but without any of the tavel hassle!

Stem Learning has an excellent range of practical and hands-on learning activities covering all sorts of climate change related themes. Check out this multi-lesson guide on Extreme Elements or this one on Future World where children can create wearable technology with lights and LEDs. That's surely going to get your STEM club pumping!

STRAWS documentary film official trailer from By the Brook Productions on Vimeo.

Check out this trailer of the film "STRAWS" which is a short documentary film made by Linda Booker, released in Spring 2017. It is 32 minutes long and talks about the problem with plastic straws. Every day, people in the U.S. use half a billion plastic straws that cannot be recycled. These straws often end up in landfills, streets, and beaches. The film is narrated by Tim Robbins, an Academy Award-winning actor. In the documentary, turtle researchers, community activists, and business owners share how small changes, like using fewer plastic straws, can help protect the environment.

Ade's honest and sensitive approach when talking with people impacted by climate change is both informative and uplifting. Although the scenes are dramatic, Ade focuses on what can be done to make the future better. Ade's documentaries provide excellent opportunities for discussion for older children.

This WWF video gives a clear explanation of the causes and challenges of climate change, as well as outlining some steps towards solutions such as a global network of no-fish zones, a treaty on the use of international waters, rewilding, efficient food production, phasing out fossil fuels, reducing our consumption of meat, reducing deforestation. 

Check out WWF's Go Wild educational resources which focus on supporting wildlife. How about adopting a polar bear and monitoring the impact of WWF's strategies to save its habitat?

Get the children's creative juices flowing with this short video. '22 Inventions that are saving the world' is a great discussion starter. With inventions such as edible water pods and edible spoons it will really get the children thinking and talking. Some inventions are actually created by students themselves! An uplifting and informative watch! Could your children invent number 23?

Mark Rober, an American engineer and inventor, attempted to extract 30 million pounds of rubbish out of one river all by himself.

But the challenge was on as he completed with the a bunch of volunteers who were trying to collect 30million pounds of rubbish from the beach. Who do you think won? Oh I forgot to mention - Mark was helped by a friend - a 50 ton trash-eating robot! Lay your bets now folks.

To find out more about how Mark Rober developed his ideas since childhood watch this video.

NOAA' Oceanic activity book will captivate children's imaginations with activities such as creating a solar cooker, creating a temperature sensor and more. Suitable for older children (upper primary or secondary).

The Climate in our hands Ocean and Cyrosphere Teacher guidance booklet has thorough explanations and guidance on how to teach topics for primary and secondary. Lots of detail and specific learning activities. 

Climate Central's 'Picturing Our Future' sliding tool shows the stark reality of what a range of cities may look like it we don't keep on track with cutting CO2 emissions. Good discussion points, if a bit scary.

The DfE has announced that every education setting will have a Sustainability Lead by 2025. These leaders will have carbon literacy training and will develop climate action plans. As 2025 is a fair way off we can expect more detail on this closer to the time.

The UN document Education is key to addressing Climate Change is key reading outlining the work done on achieving the sustainable development goals.