Environmental Literacy
It is easy to understand why many kids feel that “the environment” cannot be found within New York City. The quiet existences of trees, insects, and plants are easily overshadowed by the omnipresence of streets, cars, buses, subways, and buildings. However, cities themselves are ecosystems facing unique environmental threats of their own, as well as global threats like climate change, pollution, and habitat loss. As the world becomes more urbanized, it is imperative that we activate environmental literacy and stewardship among the young people who call cities home.