Environmental Science and Sustainability
BWL's K-12 Environmental Science and Sustainability program is an innovative and
collaborative initiative that fosters environmental awareness, responsibility, and sustainable practices.
In addition to traditional courses in Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences and more, the Environmental Science and Sustainability programming provides students with opportunities to make a real difference in the environmental health of New York City and put their knowledge into action!
The Billion Oyster Project (6th & 9th Grades)
BWL students participate in the Billion Oyster Project (BOP), a program working to restore NYC's oyster population and improve water quality by reintroducing one billion live oysters to the New York Harbor. 6th and 9th grade students cultivate oysters in our classroom aquariums, collect data on the oysters, and perform hands-on fieldwork at our dedicated research station on East 91st Street.
The oysters cultivated by our students are then transplanted into the New York City waterways as natural filtration systems and much-needed boosters of biodiversity.
6th Grade students build on the dissection, data collection, and observation skills learned in their Lower School science curriculum to provide accurate, detailed, and important data for the BOP's work all over the city.
Aquaponic and Hydroponic Farms (K-8th Grade)
This fall, BWL set out on an ambitious project to establish a cutting-edge hydroponic and aquaponic farm in our Lower School Science Lab. This innovative facility, developed by New York Sun Works, will serve as an educational tool for students in grades K-8, offering hands-on learning experiences about the many aspects of plant development, biodiversity, and sustainable farming practices.
The vegetables and plants grown by our Lower and Middle School bioengineers will be used for a number of multi-disciplinary projects, including a student-run farm stand, the promotion of health eating habits, and as hands-on examples of the plant life cycle.
Central Park Conservancy Service Days (K-12th Grade)
The BWL Environmental Club collaborates with the Central Park Conservancy for multiple service days throughout the year, participating in conservation efforts within the park and developing a profound appreciation for the natural surroundings of our bustling city environment.
These days are not only opportunities for students to come together as a community to help beautify our local parks, but also see learn how the concepts they learn in the classroom are applied in everyday situations, like through conservation efforts such as these.
