A Vision for Environmental Literacy
Louisiana’s rich and dynamic environment encompasses a vast area of land, water, and culture that serve as the lifeblood of this great state. Making wise decisions about using these resources is therefore necessary for us to maintain both a healthy environment and a vibrant economy.
The shared vision of the Louisiana Department of Education and the Louisiana Environmental Education Commission is to cultivate a Louisiana citizenry that understands, feels connected to, and is inspired to protect, preserve, and restore our environment for present use and future sustainability.
This means that “environmentally literate” citizens will have the knowledge, tools, and sensitivity to thoughtfully explore environmental issues, select optimal actions to mediate problems, and routinely include the environment as a crucial element in their work, play, and daily life. Environmental literacy encompasses the fields of natural resources management and conservation, environmental quality, coastal restoration and protection, and environmental stewardship. It is through the understanding and appreciation of our natural environment that we will become better prepared citizens ready to make wise decisions regarding our natural resources. This vision supports actions that ensure all Louisianans have the opportunity to learn about and connect with nature in positive ways, developing informed and responsible stewards of our environment.
To foster an environmentally literate populace, citizens should:
- have opportunities to experience and learn about our natural environment;
- understand human impact on the environment;
- develop a sense of stewardship towards the Earth and its finite resources; and,
- choose actions that protect and nurture the natural environment.
There is no better time than now to support all Louisiana citizens with opportunities to become more connected to our natural world. All stakeholders will be empowered by improved access to information and experiences that lead to responsible practices benefiting our people and environment.
Louisiana Green Ribbon Schools Recognition Program
In partnership with the U.S. Department of Education’s Green Ribbon Schools (US-ED GRS) program, the Louisiana Department of Education works to recognize public and nonpublic early childhood, elementary, middle, and high schools, school systems, and higher education institutions that are leading the way to promote sustainability and environmental education. Eligible applicants must demonstrate significant progress towards the following Pillars.
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Reducing environmental impact and costs
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Improving the health and wellness of schools, students, and staff
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Providing effective environmental and sustainability education, incorporating STEM, civic skills, and green career pathways
Interested applicants should submit the completed application package by 5 p.m. on December 15. More information on the Louisiana Green Ribbon Schools Recognition Program can be found on the Louisiana Green Ribbon Schools Overview document. Please email environmentaleducation@la.gov with questions.
If you have questions or would like more information about LEEC or environmental education initiatives at the Department, email
environmentaleducation@la.gov.