High school students to tackle climate change at Nova Scotia Envirothon at Acadia

Acadia University's K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre is gearing up to host the Nova Scotia Envirothon competition, which will bring together 55 high school students from across the province on May 25 and 26 to think critically about climate change.
 

During the event, students will be tested on their knowledge of environmental science in five topic areas, including forestry, wildlife, soils and land use, and aquatics. In addition to showcasing their skills and developing strategies, participants will have the opportunity to learn from experts across Nova Scotia.
 

“With climate change posing increasing challenges to our planet, engaging young people in environmental education has never been more important,” says Sarah Lavallée, Interim Research Manager and Irving Scholar Coordinator, K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre and Envirothon Coordinator. “The Nova Scotia Envirothon aims to equip students with practical skills, encouraging them to think critically about the key issues facing our planet and network with like-minded individuals across the region.” 


Lavallée adds that, ultimately, the event is designed to foster a sense of curiosity and hope about the natural world and humanity.  

 

FAST-GROWING ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING INITIATIVE
 

The Envirothon program is North America's fastest-growing environmental education initiative, with over 25,000 students in grades 9-12 participating each year in Canada, the United States, and China. In Nova Scotia, the Envirothon program has been running since 1993. It is set to expand further in the coming years thanks to the involvement of partners such as the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables, Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute, Net Zero Atlantic, and WILD Outside.
 

This year's event at Acadia will see ten teams from six high schools compete over two days in May. The students will take part in a range of field tests on Acadia’s Woodland Trails and will be asked to present strategic plans for addressing climate change in their communities as part of the oral presentation component of the competition. The winning team will have the opportunity to participate in the North American Envirothon in Sackville, New Brunswick, this July. 

 

MAKING A DIFFERENCE
 

“The climate crisis is an issue that affects us all, and by working together and fostering a sense of community, we can make a tangible difference for our planet,” says Lavallée. “At Acadia University and the K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre, we are proud to be hosting the Nova Scotia Envirothon and to be part of this collaborative effort to promote environmental education in the province.”  

Lavallée appreciates the partners and sponsors involved in this year’s Envirothon at Acadia. “Their support helps us to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders in our province,” she says. 

Organizations supporting the Envirothon include WILD Outside, Net Zero Atlantic, and the Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute, as well as the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables, Natural Resources Canada, the Association for Sustainable Forestry, the Canadian Woodlands Forum, the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, and the Atlantic Land Improvement Contractors Association.   

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Nova Scotia Envirothon

 

 

 

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