AGI Logo

Geoscience for Sustainability Lessons

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), in conjuction with the American Geophysical Union (AGU), developed Geoscience in Action: Advancing Sustainable Development, a report that highlights the work of geoscientists toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). On this page, you will find lessons based on select case studies within the Geoscience in Action Report that connect the work of geoscientists to earth science concepts commonly covered in K-12 classrooms.

Geoscience in Action Case Studies

The map below shows the location of each case study from the Geoscience in Action Report. Each pin has information on the SDGs that relate to each case study. Lessons have so far been developed for four case studies for grades K-8 (purple pins) and grades 9-12 (green pins).

Made with Padlet

 

Introducting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

These grade-level readings were designed to introduce the SDGs to K-12 students, focusing on how the SDGs relate to the geosiences (earth science).

 

K-8 Lessons

Investigating Soil for Better Food and Health

This lesson is based on case study 4.2.2 from the Geoscience in Action report. Use this lesson to relate the study of soils to SDG 2: Zero hunger and SDG 3: Good health and well-being.

 

Protecting Geoheritage Sites

This lesson is based on case study 4.3.3 from the Geoscience in Action report. Use this lesson to relate the conservation of geologic sites to SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production.

 

9-12 Lessons

The Effect of Infrastructure on Water Quality

This lesson is based on case study 4.3.1 from the Geoscience in Action report. Use this lesson to relate the study of water quality to SDG 6: Clean water and sanitation.

 

Exploring Climate Solutions: Carbon Sequestration and Storage

This lesson is based on case study 4.3.4 from the Geoscience in Action report. Use this lesson to relate the study of carbon dioxide’s effects on climate to SDG 13: Climate action.