Focus: Evaluating and improving sustainability education through local research and policy recommendations.

This project investigates how effectively sustainability is taught across different school districts by examining current education initiatives and analyzing how factors like social class, political affiliation, and more influence access and outcomes. Our research will center on approximately three key districts and will incorporate comparisons with rural areas with contrasting political environments. We’ll survey students, educators, and community members, and engage with local experts to assess impact. This work may facilitate city-level recommendations that promote stronger sustainability education.

Focus: Wildfire response, prevention, and resilience through environmental research and statewide policy development.

This project explores how California can better address the environmental consequences of wildfires and strengthen its prevention infrastructure. Analysts will investigate topics such as post-wildfire air and water quality, long-term ecological damage, drought dynamics, and the manmade factors contributing to wildfire frequency. The final goal is to produce policy briefs that inform legislation around fire prevention, ecological restoration, and climate adaptation.

Focus: Replacing harmful single-use plastics through national research, regulation, and agency reform.

This project will investigate the environmental and public health impacts of single-use plastics—particularly bottled water, disposable utensils, and food containers—at the federal level. Analysts will explore alternatives like BPA-free materials, canned water, compostable packaging, and edible solutions, evaluating their safety, scalability, and sustainability. Research will inform targeted recommendations to agencies such as the EPA, FDA, and USDA.