In this class, students will embark on an exploration of Sustainability Science, integrating traditional Earth and Space Science with important modern-day issues of global warming; climate change; and Earth stewardship. By incorporating innovative and culturally diverse perspectives, the course goes beyond mere memorization of content, encouraging students to question, reflect, and deepen their understanding of what science truly means in today’s world.

The course begins with a brief history of science and an introduction to modern Western scientific methodology, laying the groundwork for a deeper dive into alternative scientific practices from cultures around the world. Students will explore how different societies approach and interact with the natural world, learning that science is not a one-size-fits-all discipline but a field rich with diverse methodologies and perspectives. Through interactive discussions and activities inside and outside of the classroom, including readings from a wide range of academic texts; lab work; forest walks; and a Sustainability Summit field trip, students will cultivate a personal connection with nature whilst honing their foundational skills for scientific inquiry. The course culminates in a long-term sustainability-focused project called the Seventh Grade Solutionaries Project, during which students identify current local barriers to living sustainably and take action towards solving these problems.

By the end of the course, students will have developed a more comprehensive view of science—one that includes not only the analytical methods of Western science but also the wisdom of indigenous and traditional knowledge systems. The ultimate goal is for students to incorporate this broader perspective into their future studies and lives, fostering a mindset of sustainability and mutual respect for all forms of life.