Regulations

Environmental education is an essential tool in fostering a sustainable future by informing individuals about environmental issues, promoting critical thinking, and encouraging action to address environmental challenges. Both state and federal regulations help shape how environmental education is implemented across schools, communities, and educational institutions.

Federal

National Environmental Education Act (NEEA) of 1990

No Child Left Behind Act (2001)

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) (2015)

EPA’s Environmental Education Grants Program

The NEEA established the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s Office of Environmental Education and provided funding for environmental education programs. It aims to enhance the public’s understanding of environmental issues and encourage responsible decision-making for the environment.

Though primarily focused on standardized testing and academic performance, this act led to the integration of environmental education in many states as part of broader educational goals. It promoted interdisciplinary learning, where environmental topics could be integrated into science, social studies, and other subjects.

ESSA built on previous legislation and continued to encourage the inclusion of environmental education by allowing states to integrate environmental literacy into their curricula. It also provides support for local environmental education initiatives.

This program offers funding for innovative environmental education projects that promote public awareness and understanding of environmental issues. It helps communities, schools, and non-profits deliver EE programs.

Arizona State

Arizona State Standards for Environmental Education

Arizona does not have a standalone set of environmental education standards. However, environmental concepts are integrated into the state's K-12 academic standards, particularly in science, social studies, and geography. Topics like ecosystems, conservation, natural resources, and environmental impacts are covered under science education, aiming to foster environmental literacy.

Arizona Department of Education – Environmental Literacy Plan

Arizona has worked with organizations like the Arizona Association for Environmental Education (AAEE) to promote environmental literacy. The Arizona Environmental Education Plan, although not a formal state regulation, outlines goals for integrating environmental education into K-12 classrooms, professional development for educators, and the creation of resources to help teachers implement EE programs effectively.

Arizona's Outdoor Education Programs

Arizona supports outdoor education through initiatives like the Arizona Outdoor Learning (AOL) Program, which provides students with opportunities to engage with nature through field trips and outdoor learning experiences. This program is encouraged as part of the state’s efforts to engage students with their local ecosystems and encourage environmental stewardship.

Arizona State Legislature and Environmental Education

Arizona Environmental Education Grant Program

Environmental Education Teacher Training

The Arizona State University (ASU) Environmental Education Programs

Legislation related to environmental education in Arizona includes efforts to promote conservation and awareness of natural resources. For example, the Arizona State Legislature has passed bills related to water conservation, renewable energy, and land conservation, all of which contribute indirectly to environmental education by raising awareness of these important topics within the community.

Arizona provides grants and funding to schools and organizations promoting environmental education. The Arizona Environmental Education Grant Program, managed by organizations like AAEE, supports local efforts for K-12 students to engage in sustainability and conservation activities.

Arizona also supports professional development for teachers, helping them integrate environmental education into their curricula. This includes resources, workshops, and training opportunities through local environmental groups, schools, and higher education institutions.

Arizona’s higher education institutions, particularly ASU, offer resources for both students and teachers. ASU offers courses, certifications, and research on environmental education, which help train future educators and provide resources to current teachers looking to integrate EE into their classrooms.