As young people, students are uniquely positioned to be at the forefront of the environmental movement. One great way to get involved is participating in academic competitions and challenges about environmental issues. These activities can help you understand environmental terms and issues, build your resume and experience, and develop critical skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership. Here are a few options to get started:

1. RISE Challenge: The RISE Challenge empowers students to improve their community’s resilience to natural disasters. It encourages participants to not only learn about natural hazards and develop effective solutions, but also to build engaged partnerships within their local community. Learn more and get started by visiting the RISE Challenge website.
2. EPA Environmental Justice Video Challenge for Students: This challenge, organized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), invites students to contribute to identifying and tackling environmental justice challenges in partnership with affected communities. Learn more on the EPA Environmental Justice Video Challenge website.
3. School Science Fair: Many schools host annual science fairs where students can showcase their research on a variety of topics, including environmental science. This is a great way to research a specific issue of interest and share your findings. You can focus on a specific area like renewable energy, waste reduction, or water conservation. For more ideas, check out the EPA’s science fair project ideas.

Participating in sustainability competitions and challenges is a great way to contribute to a healthier planet while gaining valuable skills and experiences. Whichever program you choose, your efforts will drive positive change in your community and worldwide.