As kids go back to school I find myself reflecting on my own education, which, if I am going, to be honest, I took for granted. Growing up in NYC I had access to exceptional public schools, plus all the museums and cultural events. The diversity enveloping me was in itself an education. My junior high school had a focus on environmental science and I remember discussions about recycling, renewable energy, and edible plants! Sadly, decades later we are still having many of the same conversations, but progress is being made and I am inspired by the increasing number of educational programs focusing on sustainability and mitigating climate change. (More on that later)
It is critical for everyone to be involved in how children are being educated. Pay attention to who is running and leading your local school board. If you have school-aged children be involved, ask questions, look through their textbooks, and read what they are reading so you can discuss the more complex issues together. If you have free time volunteer. If you are looking for a career consider teaching.
You never know what words or experiences are going to ignite a child's imagination, those seeds become dreams and when nurtured those dreams become reality. Search online for the best sustainable development education courses and hundreds of programs show up. Business degrees that focus on circular economies, sustainable supply chains, and waste management.
- University of Wisconsin - Sustainable Management Degree
- Cambridge University - Circular Economy and Sustainable Strategies
- Coursera - Has a number of courses you can sit for free
In future posts we will focus on the incredible work educators are doing to improve our built environment. Rethinking systems for energy efficiencies and introducing new materials for healthier buildings. The possibilities are exciting and our children are on the path forward.
Tell us about a teacher that changed your life. Go to our social media pages Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and share your story.
Thanks for reading,
Savvy
We may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you from the links below and in the post above, but we think these companies are worth sharing.
Inspiring Reads - 
Fund literacy and protect the planet when you buy books from Certified B Corporation, Better World Books. To date Better World Books has donated over 31 million books, raised over $32 million to fund literacy programs and libraries and reused or recycled over 386 million books keeping them out of our landfills.
In Case You Missed It -
PlushBeds is committed to using certified organic and natural materials to handcraft, high quality, eco-friendly mattresses and bedding accessories. GOTS Certified, GOLS Certified, GreenGuard Gold Certified, CertiPur Certified are just a few of the third party certification standards PlushBeds adheres to. USA made in California using handcrafted techniques passed down through generations ensures that each mattress has the quality, durability and support you deserve for a superior night sleep. PlushBeds backs this up with a 25 year warranty, 100 night risk free sleep trial and free shipping.
ECOS Paints - Environmentally friendly, water based paints for your home that is non-toxic, zero VOC and hand crafted in their South Carolina plant. Exceptional coverage up to 560 sq. ft. per gallon and a transparent ingredient list make ECOS Paints the healthy home choice.
East Fork Pottery takes a stand for social equality. Partnering with community outreach organizations to stretch outside their comfort zone; paying employees a living wage, they are now working towards increasing wages to a family living wage. Receiving Carbon Neutral Certification and B Corporation Certification has inspired them to make even greater changes. East Fork's About Page was part of our inspiration for starting The Savvy Elephant. AND we haven't even touched on how stunning and beautiful their pottery is! See for yourself by clicking through to the East Fork Website.
Want More
Leave a comment below, or drop us a line if you have a question or want us to look into a topic you think will interest The Savvy Elephant community.
Not subscribed yet? You can take care of that here!
The Savvy Elephant is an online marketplace bringing you the highest quality sustainable furniture and home décor. Shop responsibly with brands that support your values.