Dean Gus Speth on Changing Education for the Environment

TL;DR

Lack of investment in environmental education has resulted in low levels of literacy on environmental and energy issues in the public, as well as a disconnection from the natural world.

Transcript

well when I started in in this field uh in 1970 uh there was a the I we were so concerned about the problem and the immediate need uh to deal with the issues uh that were pressing at that time that I remember we had this idea that we really long education was too long term if we were dealing with grade school children you know that was so long befo... Read More

Key Insights

• 😘 Lack of investment in environmental education has resulted in low levels of environmental literacy among the public.
• 🥺 People are disconnecting from the natural world, leading to declining National Park visitation and reduced exposure to nature.
• 👶 States have implemented programs to promote children's exposure to nature, and efforts are being made to improve adult environmental education.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why has there been a lack of investment in environmental education?

Historically, environmental education has been viewed as a long-term investment, which did not prioritize immediate concerns. Additionally, the public's low environmental literacy also contributed to the lack of significant investment.

Q: How has the lack of environmental education impacted society?

The public's low level of literacy on environmental and energy issues is concerning as it hinders effective environmental decision-making. Moreover, people's disconnection from the natural world has led to declining National Park visitation and reduced exposure to nature, which can negatively impact mental and physical well-being.

Q: What efforts are being made to address the lack of environmental education?

Some states have implemented "No Child Left Inside" programs to encourage children's exposure to nature. Vice President Gore is also sponsoring a large-scale public service advertising campaign to promote environmental education. Additionally, environmental studies programs in universities and adult education initiatives aim to improve environmental literacy.

Q: How can environmental education help address current environmental issues?

Environmental education can contribute to a more environmentally enlightened society. If all students in colleges and universities graduate with environmental literacy, it can lead to better-informed decisions and a more environmentally conscious administration.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Environmental education has historically been overlooked and underfunded, with the focus on immediate pressing issues rather than long-term education.

• The lack of environmental education has led to low levels of literacy on environmental and energy issues in the public.

• People are disconnecting from the natural world, with declining National Park visitation and decreased exposure to nature.