A Compliment That Sparked a Bigger Thought
This week, a guest speaker from NC Extension visited my classroom. As she was leaving, she turned to me and said, “Your kids are amazing coders!” My teacher heart just about burst.
That one comment stuck with me for the rest of the day. It made me think about something I’m always trying to communicate to my students, my colleagues, and honestly, anyone who will listen: Where does coding fit into a sustainable framework?
We Know Coding Belongs in STEM… But What About Sustainability?
We already know coding has a solid place in STEM. That’s nothing new. But does it belong in environmental education and sustainability?
Absolutely.
The Green Tech space is growing fast…faster than most people realize. Solar, wind, forestry, agriculture, environmental modeling, carbon mapping, smart homes. These fields all rely on data, software, automation, and digital tools. Being computer literate isn’t just helpful anymore. It’s essential.
Our Students Live in an AI World — Let’s Show Them the Good It Can Do
Today’s students are growing up in a world shaped by AI and automation. If we don’t lean into that reality, we miss a huge opportunity to show them how technology can be used for good. To heal, protect, and better understand our planet.
Coding becomes a way to explore:
- How data can track deforestation
- How sensors can monitor soil health
- How robots can support conservation
- How AI can analyze climate patterns
- How everyday tools can help reduce our impact
When we pair sustainability with coding, we invite students to think critically about innovation and responsibility.
Yes, Technology Has an Environmental Cost…And That Matters Too
I’m not blind to the challenges. Technology uses water, consumes energy, and comes with a production footprint. Those realities need to be part of the conversation, too.
But here’s the truth:
Coding is here. Technology is here. And our kids need to understand how to use it wisely.
Environmental education is the perfect place to explore both the benefits and the impact.
Learning Together, One Debug at a Time
I think back to the first time I taught coding. I was terrified the kids would realize I had no idea what I was doing. We learned together. We failed together. We laughed, tried again, and kept going.
Now those same kids are being described as “amazing coders.” That’s the power of just beginning.
Why Coding Belongs in Environmental Education
Coding isn’t just about programming a robot or making a game. It’s about giving students the tools they need to build a better future, one where technology and sustainability work hand in hand.
And environmental education? It’s the perfect place to start.
Want to learn more about education in Sustainability?
Take a look at some blogs that can bring sustainability into your classroom.
Miss Makey: Turning Trash to Treasure