Through its bioDIVERSITY: Building Bridges to Natural Science Education program, the southern Alberta chapter of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS SA) is opening doors to the natural world for the next generation of environmental stewards. CPAWS SA has spent more than 25 years helping young people discover the science behind Canada’s wild spaces and delivering award-winning environmental education to more than 185,000 students in Alberta.

The program brings science to life with hands-on activities that go beyond the classroom. Students explore ecosystems through field studies, examine bio-facts, and use investigation kits to understand how nature works. For many, the program is their first chance to experience science outdoors. The new ChangeMakers Community platform adds an online dimension, offering resources, eco-events and diverse role models to inspire action in the students’ own communities. CPAWS SA ChangeMakers also offers the Youth Conservation Collective (YCC), an exciting 3-month program designed to deepen both environmental knowledge and leadership skills among teens. YCC amplifies the diverse voices and perspectives that are too often overlooked in environmental conversations, empowering youth to become change-makers in their own right.

By making natural science education accessible to equity-deserving groups, CPAWS SA is breaking down barriers and inspiring the next generation of scientists and conservationists. The organization’s work supports students from rural and newcomer communities, students who are Indigenous, and students who are neurodivergent or have disabilities.

NSERC’s PromoScience funding enabled CPAWS SA to deliver 900 programs over the past 3 years, reaching 22,500 youth and providing them with the knowledge and confidence to pursue STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) pathways while caring for Canada’s natural heritage. CPAWS SA is helping young people to see that science isn’t just in textbooks—it’s all around them.

Photo: Amber Payliss