Human Impacts

Ute Petroglyphs, Delicate arch hiking trail, Arches National Park, adjacent to the Colorado River, Moab, Utah, USA

If You Were the Boss

Students play the role of forest manager for a 400-acre (162-hectare) public forest, exploring the complex factors that influence management decisions about forest lands.

Data sources:Natural Earth II

Global Goods

Students gain an appreciation for how many natural resources they depend on in their day-to-day lives. By tracing the resources that go into making one item, students learn how its manufacturing can have an impact on the environment.

Solar panel on blue sky background. Green grass and cloudy sky. Alternative energy concept

Exploration Energy!

The energy we use at home, school, or work enhances our lives, but it also often contributes to air and water pollution, wildlife and habitat loss, and climate change.

hand woman listens to a tree with a stethoscope in the forest, concept love the environment. copy space. selective focus.

Trees in Trouble

Students examine trees for signs of damage or poor health and investigate conditions that may cause trees and other plants to become unhealthy.

Many packaged blue mineral water bottles in stock in a store or market.

Peek at Packaging

Nearly everything we buy comes in some sort of package. Students examine the pros and cons of different packaging and design an “ideal” package.

silhouette of friends shake hands up and sitting together in sunset for happiness,business successful and team work concept.

My Green Future

All kinds of people work in the forest—from foresters, to loggers, to scientists. Everyone depends on properly managed forests for recreation, essential products, wildlife and biodiversity, clean water and air.

clean blue water with air bubbles and splashes on white background

Every Drop Counts

It’s easy to waste water and even easier to take water for granted. Water pours out of our faucets as though it were endlessly available. But the truth is the supply of good quality, fresh water is limited. Fortunately, we can all conserve water.