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First Nations Perspective of Interconnectedness:

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First Nations Perspective of Interconnectedness:

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"Earth and its climate have changed over geological time."

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Building Student Success - B.C. Curriculum

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Ways of knowing refers to the various beliefs about the nature of knowledge that people have; they can include, but are not limited to, Aboriginal, gender-related, subject/discipline specific, cultural, embodied and intuitive beliefs about knowledge., and local knowledge as sources of information

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Key Question: What is interconnectedness?
What is the First People's perspective of interconnectedness?
Notes: This reading resource explains what interconnectedness is and how it works from a First Nations perspective.
Use Example: Great as an introduction, as a teacher read aloud or could be done as a read, pair, share.

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For information on user permissions, please read our Terms of Service. If you have questions about how to cite anything on our website in your project or classroom presentation, please contact your teacher. They will best know the preferred format. When you reach out to them, you will need the page title, URL, and the date you accessed the resource.

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Key Question: How do food webs and chains work? Why are they so important?
Notes: This National Geographic website explains what a food web is through this infographic picture.
Use Example: Use this food web as an example and have students create their own.

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Food Chains Compilation: Crash Course Kids

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Key Question: What is the difference between food webs and food chains?
Notes: Both videos are done by Crash Course Kids!  A great visual science resource for students.
Use Example: Have students watch both videos then compare and contrast the two concepts. Maybe using a Venn Diagram!

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Who do we share our homes with? Your backyard contain a great deal of wildlife. Animals will live in any area that provides a sufficient habitat (shelter and space) and has access to food and water. If you look closely, you will always find something sharing your address, whether in or on your home,…

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Key Question: Who do we share our homes with?
Notes: This unit helps students explore the ecology and biodiversity that they share their home with.
Use Examples: These 11 lessons could be used to create and guide and entire local environment unit!

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You can help protect the planet! Try some of these tips to conserve limited resources such as water, energy, and animals; prevent landfill waste; or decrease harmful gases, such as CO2, which contribute to global warming. So get green and give the tips a try. Make sure to ask your parents before trying any of these tips!

Recycle and Reuse

Set out cans and bottles for neighborhood pickup, or exchange them for cash at a recycling center. Most community trash services will pick up your recycled bottles and cans.

Choose rechargeable batteries, then recycle them when they die. You'd have to use hundreds of single-use batteries to equal the energy you'd get out of one rechargable battery. Be sure to recycle all batteries to keep harmful metals from entering the environment.

The next time you have the impulse to buy a new book to read, borrow it from the library or a friend instead of buying a new copy. Sharing books is a great way to reduce waste and reuse materials.

Don't drink bottled water! Use a reusable bottle instead.

Buy toys that last. Toys are made, directly or indirectly, from natural resources. Choose toys that won't break easily so you aren't always buying more stuff or creating more trash.

Improve the Outdoors

Plant a deciduous (leafy) tree that loses its leaves in fall on the south side of your home. Its shade will cool your house in the summer. After the tree's leaves fall, sunlight will help warm your house in winter. Trees help clean the air we breathe. They produce oxygen and reduce carbon dioxide.

Participate in cleanup days at a beach or park. Use those outdoor trash cans! Never litter. Keep our waterways clean. When you visit a park or beach, be sure you deposit your trash in containers and volunteer at some state and national cleanups.

Don't Kill That Spider!

There are an estimated 40,000 species of spiders, and they all eat insects. They're an important part of the food web and provide natural pest control.

Safeguard Storm Drains

Don't litter. Trash tossed carelessly outside often washes into storm drains, which empty into rivers and streams that eventually flow to the oceans. Pollution is a growing problem for all the Earth's ocean and its wildlife.

No Place for Pets

Never release a pet into the wild-it can become an invasive species! Cats, dogs, snakes, ferrets, and even hedgehogs prey on local wildlife. If you can't keep your pet, find it a new home, or give it to an animal shelter.

Cut Down on Waste

Ban all drips. If you have a dripping faucet in the house, ask your parents to replace the washer inside it. If you stop a faucet from leaking one drop each second, you can save 2,700 gallons (10,220 liters) of water a year.

Don't pile your plate. "When's dinner?" you want to know. You're starving after a long day at school! Even so, restrain yourself and take only what you know you'll really be able to eat. Enough edible food to feed 49 million people ends up in landfills in the United States each year.

Spread the Word

Tell your friends! The more people who treat the Earth well, the safer all its inhabitants will be.

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You can help protect the planet! Try some of these tips to conserve limited resources such as water, energy, and animals; prevent landfill waste; or decrease harmful gases, such as CO2, which contribute to global warming. So get green and give the tips a try.

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Key Questions: What can you do to improve your local environment?
Notes: This webpage gives students suggestions on how to improve the environment right in their own backyard.
Use Example: After exploring the webpage, students could create a SMART goal of one of the suggestions on the webpage that they plan to take on.

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Climate Change 101 with Bill Nye | National Geographic

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Key Question: What is climate change?
Notes: This video collaboration done by Bill Nye and National Geographic defines and explains climate change in child friendly language.
Use Example: This video would be a great resource to use as a hook for the start of the unit.

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The global average sea level has risen over 7 inches in the past 100 years. A few inches may not seem like much, but every inch of sea level rise covers 50-100 inches of beach. If the ice keeps melting, global sea level could rise more than 20 feet.

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Key Questions: What will happen if sea levels keep rising?
Notes: This fun and interactive webpage explains the dangers of rising sea levels caused by climate change.
Use Example: Students could use this webpage to pretend that they are an earth doctor and create a planet health report.

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Why is the ocean important for life on Earth?

The ocean is important because it is a very large part of our planet. In fact, it covers 70% of Earth's surface. The ocean is a home and food source for countless fish, mammals, plants, birds, and more.

The ocean plays an important role in whatever happens in our environment on Earth. Even if you live on land - like humans do - you wouldn't survive without the ocean!

One example: without the ocean, Earth would be much hotter than it is right now. That's because the ocean absorbs heat from the Sun and spreads it more evenly around our planet.

How does the ocean soak up heat from the Sun?

Water is excellent at storing heat. Water has a high heat capacity-it absorbs a lot of heat before it begins to get hot. Air, on the other hand, is not so great at storing heat.

Earth's climate is warming due to human activities. As Earth experiences a warming climate, we experience hotter air temperatures. The ocean does an excellent job of absorbing the extra heat from the atmosphere, delaying the full impact of global warming.

The top few meters of the ocean store as much heat as Earth's entire atmosphere. So, as the planet warms, it's the ocean that gets most of the extra energy. More than 90% of the global warming is going into the ocean.

But if the ocean gets too warm, then the plants and animals that live there can get sick or even die.

How are coral reefs affected by climate change?

Coral reefs are created by living creatures. Warming oceans caused by climate change are putting coral reefs in danger. Coral reefs are made by very fragile colonies of organisms that build skeletons around themselves.

Coral lives together with a certain kind of colorful algae. The algae make food using sunlight ¬- a process called photosynthesis. The algae share the food with the coral, and in turn, the coral gives the algae a safe and comfortable place to live.

The two of them get along fine, living in clean, clear, shallow waters where the Sun shines through brightly. Fish and other sea creatures love coral too, because there are lots of nooks and crannies for them to hide in.

But the algae cannot carry out photosynthesis in water that is too warm. The algae either die, or the coral spits it out. It's bad for the algae, the coral and the fish, because the coral lose their food sources and become weak and can die. This event is called coral bleaching, and it is a very serious problem in many ocean ecosystems around the world.

Read about what it's like to be an ocean scientist studying coral reefs.

How does the ocean soak up CO₂?

Fish and other animals in the ocean breathe oxygen and give off carbon dioxide (CO ₂), just like land animals. Ocean plants take in the carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, just like land plants. The ocean is great at absorbing CO ₂ from the air.

However, a lot of CO ₂ comes from human activities, too. For example, exhaust from cars, planes, and factories put extra carbon dioxide into our air. Too much carbon dioxide in the air is a problem, as it causes the Earth to trap more heat. The ocean absorbs about one-quarter of the CO ₂ that humans create when we burn fossil fuels (oil, coal, and natural gas).

Too much carbon dioxide in the ocean causes a problem called ocean acidification. You can read this article to learn all about ocean acidification and its effects.

How does the ocean affect the climate?

The ocean absorbs heat from the Sun and ocean currents move that warm water all around the planet. Ocean currents are like highways that carry water around the world. Heat (along with salt) is a major source of power for ocean currents.

Cold water near the North and South Poles sinks deeper into the ocean. Water near the equator is warmed by the Sun. Then, the warm surface water moves closer to the poles where it cools and sinks.

As Earth's climate warms, the water also warms melting sea ice. This warming could make the water less cold and less likely to sink. Without sinking cold water, the ocean currents could slow down or stop in some places. This could change the climate in places like Europe that have milder climates thanks to the warm currents in the oceans around them.

Does the salt in the ocean do anything?

The amount of salt in the ocean also affects currents. Saltier water is heavier than less salty water. When salty ocean water freezes, the ice can no longer hold on to the salt. Instead, the salt mixes with the water below making it saltier and heavier. Glaciers, land ice and icebergs are made of fresh water, so what happens when this ice melts? Good question!

The water in the North Atlantic sinks because it's cold, but also because it's salty. Being both cold and salty makes it really dense and heavy, so it can sink very far. But if too much ice melts in the North Atlantic, the water could become less salty and affect ocean currents. NASA satellites are keeping a close eye on the melting ice, the ocean currents, and ocean life to better understand this complicated system.

Play Go With the Flow to use temperature, salinity, and ocean currents to find treasure!

How does climate change impact sea level?

As Earth warms, NASA has observed that sea levels are rising. Water expands as it gets warmer. So, warm water takes up more room in our oceans, and this leads to higher sea levels. Another reason that oceans are rising is due to melting ice on land. Glaciers and ice sheets are large masses of ice that sit on the land. As our planet warms, this ice melts and flows into the oceans. More water in the oceans makes sea level higher.

NASA satellites are constantly measuring sea level around the globe. Learn more about how we measure sea level with satellites.

Related NASA Missions

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How Does Climate Change Affect the Ocean?

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Additional heat and carbon dioxide in the ocean can change the environment for the many plants and animals that live there.

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Key Questions: What is happening to the ocean right now due to climate change?
Notes: This website resource has a well written webpage filled with useful information about the importance of the ocean and the sea creatures that call it home.
Use Example: This page has a lot reading and would be useful to do as an individual or partner readings and questions, followed by a whole class discussion.

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In 2016, I had the privilege of witnessing a documentary that left an indelible mark on my perspective of the world. "Before the Flood," a groundbreaking film produced by Fisher Stevens and featuring the passionate voice of Leonardo DiCaprio, fearlessly delved into the daunting realm of climate change.

Having immersed myself in this powerful documentary, I found myself captivated by the raw honesty and urgency that emanated from the screen, as if the dire state of our planet was laid bare before my eyes. I felt compelled to embark on a deeper exploration

Through this analysis, I seek to shed light on the powerful themes woven throughout the documentary, urging us all to reflect on our role in shaping the future of our planet.

Leonardo DiCaprio's Environmental Journey:

One cannot discuss " Before the Flood " without discussing its messenger, Leonardo DiCaprio. A UN Messenger of Peace, DiCaprio dons the hat of an advocate in the film. He delves into the frontline of climate change, speaking to world leaders, scientists, and individuals affected by environmental degradation, and humanizes a global crisis often perceived as abstract.

DiCaprio's personal connection to the environmental cause is deeply rooted. Throughout the film, he reflects on his childhood, reminiscing about his interest in the natural world and the impact an artwork " The Garden of Earthly Delights " had on him.

In his quest for truth, he also confronts the disinformation spread by some influential figures, a topic further explored in our article on the top climate deniers.

This narrative strategy by the film's creators allows the audience to connect

with the issue on a personal level, adding a layer of emotional depth.

As he journeys through the documentary, DiCaprio's role oscillates between a student and a teacher. His genuine curiosity and eagerness to learn make the complex climate concepts accessible to audiences, while his celebrity status ensures the message reaches far and wide.

He encapsulates the role of an 'everyman', becoming the eyes and ears of the audience on this perilous journey.

The Global Climate Crisis:

"Before the Flood" paints a vivid picture of the urgency of climate change. It begins with the explanation of the Anthropocene era, marking a period where human activities started to have a significant global impact on Earth's climate and ecosystems. By setting this premise, it showcases how humans have triggered an environmental catastrophe.

The film's portrayal of the global impact and consequences of climate change is hard-hitting. It takes us from the melting glaciers of the Arctic to the rising seas threatening the existence of Pacific islands, showcasing the stark and undeniable reality of climate change. Each location visited and story told emphasizes the existential threat that the crisis presents.

What sets "Before the Flood" apart is its ability to communicate the gravity of climate change effectively. Through compelling visuals and expert testimonies, it translates scientific data into a language that resonates with audiences. Its purpose is not to create fear, but to convey the urgency for change, and in this aspect, it succeeds remarkably.

Eye-Opening Expeditions:

Throughout the documentary, audiences are taken on a global journey to witness the devastating impacts of climate change firsthand. From the rapidly melting polar ice caps to the burning forests in Indonesia, the visual narrative grips viewers, offering an immersive experience of environmental devastation.

There is a power in the visual medium that "Before the Flood" taps into effectively.

Images of once thriving glacial regions now turned into expanses of water, the ashes of cleared and burned forests, and the teary-eyed inhabitants of climate-threatened regions all serve to evoke an emotional response. The documentary understands that to spur people into action, it must first make them feel.

The expeditionary approach adopted by the documentary also ensures a broad scope of understanding. It shows the correlation of environmental issues across the globe. It elucidates how our actions in one part of the world can have devastating effects in another, emphasizing the global nature of the crisis.

Personal Stories and Testimonies:

In a clever storytelling move, the film doesn't only rely on data and facts. It brings climate change to a human level by highlighting personal narratives, demonstrating how environmental issues directly impact communities. It shows the viewer that climate change isn't a distant problem but one that's causing suffering here and now.

These personal stories are impactful because they add a human face to the crisis. From a villager in India dealing with floods to a farmer in America experiencing unpredictable weather patterns, these narratives elicit empathy. They make the abstract threat of climate change concrete, thus underlining the need for action.

Moreover, these narratives serve as a powerful tool for raising environmental awareness. They help to break the inertia and apathy that often accompany discussions about climate change, by providing relatable and tangible stories. Through personal testimonials, "Before the Flood" manages to move beyond statistics and speak directly to the viewer's emotions.

Political Challenges and Policy Implications:

The movie doesn't shy away from the political landscape surrounding climate change. It navigates through intricate climate politics, exploring how political agendas can either hamper or promote climate action.

DiCaprio's conversations with world leaders bring a new dimension to the film, as they delve into the responsibility of the political class in combating the crisis.

The film also explores the influence of corporate lobbying on environmental policies. It highlights how short-term economic interests are often prioritized over the long-term wellbeing of the planet, causing a roadblock in the path towards a sustainable future. This critique of policy-making underscores the need for robust political will in addressing climate change.

Despite these challenges, "Before the Flood" also shines a light on policy opportunities for change. It champions the Paris Agreement and renewable energy subsidies as essential components of a climate-friendly policy landscape. The documentary aims to motivate viewers to demand more climate-conscious policies from their leaders.

Innovative Solutions and Technologies:

Amidst the bleak scenarios painted by the documentary, the film also highlights a beacon of hope: innovation. It showcases the potentials of green technology and renewable energy as viable solutions to the climate crisis. The film takes the audience on a journey from the wind turbines of Denmark to the solar fields of China, illustrating the world's capacity for transformation.

But the documentary doesn't just limit the conversation to the technology itself. It examines the economic and social implications of these solutions, scrutinizing their feasibility and scalability. It also underscores the significance of governmental support in fostering a favorable environment for these green alternatives.

"Before the Flood" also emphasizes that while technology offers a way forward, it's not a silver bullet. Technological innovations need to be complemented by broader systemic changes, such as policy adjustments, economic incentives, and cultural shifts towards sustainability. The documentary thus presents a balanced view of the role of technology in climate action.

The Role of Corporations and Accountability:

This film leaves no stone unturned when it comes to exploring the various dimensions of the climate crisis. It scrutinizes the role of corporations in environmental degradation, questioning the practices of industries like fossil fuels and palm oil. Furthermore, it effectively exposes the destructive behaviors of these corporations, igniting discussions about corporate responsibility.

The documentary doesn't merely critique corporations but highlights the need for transparency and accountability. It introduces the concept of carbon pricing as a mechanism to hold corporations accountable for their environmental footprints. It argues for a shift from profit-centered practices to sustainability-centered business models.

The documentary also emphasizes the power of consumers in driving corporate change. It encourages viewers to be conscious of their consumption patterns and the impacts they may have on the environment. The message is clear: corporations have a crucial role to play in environmental stewardship, but consumers also share this responsibility.

The Power of Awareness and Education:

One of the core themes in the film is the power of awareness and education. Throughout the film, DiCaprio acts as a conduit of information, facilitating the spread of knowledge about climate change. This role underscores the importance of awareness in catalyzing environmental action.

"Before the Flood" excels as an educational tool. It presents complex information about climate change in a digestible format, making it accessible to a broad audience. It incorporates scientific insights, expert testimonies, and striking visuals to enhance understanding and retention of the presented facts.

Moreover, the film exemplifies the role of public engagement in environmental action. It underscores the importance of collective understanding and dialogue in tackling climate change. It prompts viewers to question, learn, and discuss, fostering a community that's informed and engaged in the fight against climate change.

Activism and Grassroots Movements:

This documentary is not just about the problems; it's about the solutions too. It highlights the power of grassroots movements and activism in combating climate change. It showcases how individuals and communities worldwide are taking matters into their own hands, refusing to wait for governments and corporations to take action.

The film highlights instances of successful activism, like community-driven renewable energy projects and local conservation efforts. These stories serve as an inspiration, indicating that change is possible when people band together. It also dispels the notion that climate action is solely the responsibility of governments and corporations.

The film explores the environmental impact of individual lifestyle choices, from dietary habits to modes of transport. It urges viewers to reflect on their habits, prompting them to consider more sustainable alternatives.

It offers practical suggestions for reducing one's carbon footprint, such as adopting a plant-based diet or reducing air travel. It calls on viewers to assume personal responsibility for the health of the planet.

By drawing attention to the impact of personal choices, "Before the Flood" invites viewers to become active participants in the climate solution. It reminds us that while the climate crisis is a systemic issue requiring large-scale solutions, our everyday choices can also make a difference.

The message is clear: individual responsibility is a powerful tool in the fight against climate change.

Media Influence and Communication:

"Before the Flood" recognizes the influential role of the media in shaping public perception of climate change. It critiques the media's handling of the crisis, highlighting how false balance and misinformation can hinder public understanding and impede action.

The film itself serves as an effective example of the media's potential to enlighten audiences about environmental issues. It shows that media, when leveraged appropriately, can be an invaluable tool in the fight against climate change.

In essence, "Before the Flood" emphasizes the need for accurate and engaging environmental reporting. It makes a case for responsible journalism that prioritizes factual information over sensationalism and bias. It underlines the media's responsibility in fostering a well-informed and proactive public.

2020 was the hottest year in the global temperature record, going back 140 years. 2020 statistically tied with the previous record holder, 2016 - a year when El Niño, a cyclical climate pattern, gave temperatures an above average boost. pic.twitter.com/Ght03Sl2VQ

- NASA GISS (@NASAGISS) January 14, 2021

What are some global initiatives and movements that align with the message of "Before the Flood"?

"Before the Flood" aligns with initiatives such as the Paris Agreement, Fridays for Future, and Global Climate Strikes.

What are some of the environmental phenomena depicted in "Before the Flood"?

The film showcases environmental phenomena such as glacial retreats, deforestation, rising sea levels, and the impact on wildlife and ecosystems.

Are there any criticisms or controversies surrounding the film?

"Before the Flood" has faced some criticism and controversy, with some questioning its effectiveness, scientific accuracy, and potential political bias.

What steps can individuals take after watching "Before the Flood" to make a difference?

Individuals can take actions such as reducing energy consumption, supporting renewable energy initiatives, advocating for policy changes, and spreading awareness.

How has "Before the Flood" influenced viewers personally in their understanding and response to climate change?

The film has sparked personal reflections, motivated lifestyle changes, and inspired individuals to become more active in addressing climate change, both on individual and collective levels.

Conclusion:

"Before the Flood" is more than just a film; it's a wake-up call. It pulls no punches in portraying the dire state of our planet, but it also instills a sense of hope and urgency for action. Through Leonardo DiCaprio's journey, we witness the power of awareness, the importance of education, the potential of technology, and the strength of collective action.

The documentary serves as a stark reminder of the continued need for action and collaboration in addressing climate change. It calls for a concerted effort from governments, corporations, and individuals alike.

As we venture further into the era of climate crisis, this film remains a relevant and compelling guide, encouraging each one of us to play our part in ensuring a sustainable future for our planet.

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Before the Flood: An Environmental Awakening Movie Analysis

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In 2016, I had the privilege of witnessing a documentary that left an indelible mark on my perspective of the world. "Before the Flood," a groundbreaking film produced by Fisher Stevens and featuring the passionate voice of Leonardo DiCaprio, fearlessly delved into the daunting realm of climate change.

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Key Question: What role do humans play in climate change?
Notes: This documentary is student friendly. Leonardo DiCaprio explains where we started and where we are going when in comes to climate change.
Use Example: Show this documentary closer to the end of the unit. Have students create a poster to put up around the school highlighting one idea from the documentary.

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Sustainability and the Vancouver Aquarium:

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Sustainability and the Vancouver Aquarium:

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In our Environmental Policy, we make a commitment to identify waste streams and work to eliminate them. We fulfill this commitment by conducting annual waste audits to help us better understand our waste, and we also implement new waste-reduction and recycling programs. In our offices, we compost food waste and recycle everything from standard paper, cardboard, and containers to less standard items like nitrile gloves, ceramics, writing instruments, and electronics.

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In our Environmental Policy, we make a commitment to identify waste streams and work to eliminate them. We fulfill this commitment by conducting annual waste audits to help us better understand our waste, and we also implement new waste-reduction and recycling programs. In our offices, we compost food waste and recycle everything from standard paper, cardboard, and containers to less standard items like nitrile gloves, ceramics, writing instruments, and electronics.

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Key Questions: What can you and your family do to slow down climate change?
Notes: This resource by the Vancouver Aquarium gives students useful and realistic ways they can reduce their footprint on the planet.
Use Example: Have students explore the website and brainstorm realistic ways they can make a difference when it comes to climate change. Perhaps have each class member share.