At night, you shone like stars that brightly glide,
Your love — my strength, my soul’s most precious right.
You taught me patience with each passing day,
And bore life’s burdens with unshaken grace.
Within your eyes, I found my secret place —
I’ll never forget your love’s endless ray.
When the world pressed hard upon my soul,
You opened your arms, absorbing my pain.
Though you were burning, you’d never let it show —
For me, you lived, enduring in silence again.
Oh Mother, no words could ever define,
Your love — a river that knows no end.
In my life and soul, you eternally shine,
The only true light my heart can send.
Without you, what’s left in this heart of mine?
Cold nights would burn it with silent cries.
In every storm, your prayer is enough —
Your every word, a star in my skies.
The older I grew, the more I could see:
Each breath you took was a silent sacrifice.
If now I shine like a star in the sky,
Know — my light is just your love in disguise.
Life’s trials were sharp as a sword’s cruel blade,
But you walked beside me like a gentle shade.
In heavy moments, you carried hope’s flame,
Never once saying, “Poor me,” — never in shame.
Now I stand as someone my homeland needs,
Your lessons — the foundation of my soul.
Each of my triumphs, each noble deed,
Is a gift to you, who made me whole.
You are my quiet muse in every day,
The light of truth shines deep in your gaze.
Even in dreams, may you still softly pray —
With you, life blossoms in beautiful ways.
Though fate may pave my path with stone,
The strength I bear is from your heart alone.
In my soul lives a word beyond compare —
Each work I begin starts with “Mother” there.
Turayeva Sadoqat Kahramonovna was born on March 26, 2005 in Gurlan district, Khorezm region. After graduating from school No. 23 in Gurlan district, she studied at the Academic Lyceum of Urgench State University between 2021 and 2023. Currently, she is a 2nd year student at the Faculty of Philology and Arts of Urgench State University named after Abu Rayhon Beruni.
(Young Central Asian woman in a black coat with buttons on the sleeves and a white frilly blouse, seated in a cafeteria with yellow chairs).
A NEW DAY
Dewdrops dance on leaves, in gardens nestled so deep, Softly drifting, clouds above sing lullabies in sleep. Like the scent of a tulip, sorrow lifts from the soul, While grandmas pray for peace and health, making the people whole.
Grass blades greet us warmly, heads risen in delight, Listening to the cranes returning, crying through their flight. In emerald green that charms the eyes, they reach toward the skies, Sunlight glimmers on each bud like gold in children’s eyes.
Some have lived to see these days, and some have not, it’s true, But spring still whispers words of joy that gently pass on through. From parents’ heartfelt blessings bloom joy and inner grace, And on the sky of fate we see youth’s star take its place.
With spring anew, a brand new day, forget the shadows past, Let pure intentions simmer like sumalak in the pot at last. Let kites that soar in skyward flight sweep grief from every heart, And let us share the blooms of love, together, never apart.
Welcome back, O Spring, to my land! You’ve brought such dazzling cheer, For the sixteenth time I face you, smiling with eyes so clear. How many times we’ll meet again, I do not truly know, But angels built a palace in my soul for you to glow.
Gulmira Ravshonbekova, daughter of Ruslonbek,was born on August 29, 2005, in Khiva city, Khorezm region.Currently, she is a second-year student at Urgench State University named after Abu Rayhan Beruni. She is a recipient of the “Ogahiy Scholarship” and the “Governor’s Scholarship”. Her first collection of poetry and prose, titled “Love for Enchanting Words”, has been published.She is a winner of several international, national, and regional Olympiads and competitions. Gulmira is also a member and certificate holder of the “Kyrgyz Poets and Writers Fund” of the Kyrgyz Republic. Additionally, she represents Uzbekistan in the international organization “National Human Rights and Humanitary Federation”.Her academic and literary works have been published in journals and anthologies in countries such as Germany, the USA, Turkey, Canada, India, Poland, and others.
First of all, we’re sharing the new project of young leader Muslima Olimova. The online platform Muslima Academy is a secular youth-led educational initiative empowering students with digital skills, international opportunities, and career readiness. More information here.
Disabled contributor, lyric essayist, and ALS activist Katrina Byrd suffered hurricane damage to her home and seeks support to rebuild and make ends meet while she’s getting ready to move. Whatever folks can contribute will make a real difference.
South African poet and essayist Abigail George, whom we’ve published many times, shares the fundraiser her book’s press has created for her. She’s seeking contributions for office supplies and resources to be able to serve as a speaker and advocate for others who have experienced trauma or deal with mental health issues.
Also, the Educational Bookshop in Jerusalem, a store that has the mission of peaceful dialogue and education, invites readers to donate new or gently used books (all genres) that have been meaningful to them, with a note enclosed for future readers about why the books were meaningful. (The books don’t have to be about peace or social justice or the Mideast, although they can be). Please send books here. US-based Interlink Publishing has also started a GoFundMe for the store.
Next, we have a group of young early-career UC Davis academics who hope to attend an important conference in the field of climate science, but need to privately raise cash to replace grant funds that were removed due to changing conditions in the U.S. They’ve been hosting bake sales to make up the difference.
We’re spreading the word about Claire Jones and Amaranthia Sepia and their work through Sista Creatives Rising, creating accessible virtual shows, spotlighting and giving small grants to women of color to pursue their creative dreams. They’ll host a new show this fall, tickets will be available soon, and are inviting people to donate to celebrate Juneteenth! Any donations we receive will help us support our team, speakers and tech needs such as Adobe, Xfinity Emergency Storm Wi-Fi, editing & captioning apps, accessibility support, and more!
Also, we encourage people to consider supporting the Sun Gallery, which is one of the venues hosting the Hayward (California) Lit Hop festival, co-sponsored each year by Synchronized Chaos Magazine. They’re struggling due to the loss of some important grants and facing possible closure, and we would like to give back to the places that have supported us.
Finally, we’re helping out one of the founders of the Secret Spot,a grassroots performance and visual arts collective launched by low-income artists early in their careers. The Secret Spot is temporarily taking a break while she recovers from injuries sustained in a car accident.
Now, for July’s first issue: Hold This World Loosely. These words of St. Paul from two millennia ago remind us that while there is much to embrace in the world, all is impermanent and we can only protect ourselves from suffering by holding on with a loose grasp. However, this flexibility also frees us to appreciate and create positive change.
Eva Petropoulou Lianou describes the freedom found in holding onto life with a loose hand. Yucheng Tao crafts poetry of fleeting moments, consciousness, grief, and beauty. Dustin Pickering expresses his desire to float away with his love, even down to shadows and the abyss. Jason Ryberg’s poetry evokes dreams, memory, and timelessness. Lilian Dipasupil Kunimasa writes of gales of wind and emotion and the cultural wisdom embedded in a Native American dream catcher. Graciela Noemi Villaverde writes elegantly of a summer train adventure and the need to let go of some of the past to embrace the future.
Welcoming personal and societal change and growth can be a positive thing. Qobulova Gulzoda honors the forward-thinking Jadid leaders in Uzbekistan’s heritage who promoted education, science, and literacy. Gulshoda Jorabekovna Baxtiyorova offers up patriotic praise for Uzbekistan’s current presidential administration and its efforts to promote education, science, women’s rights, and athletics. Xoliqulova Husniabonu reflects on the bravery and dedication of her nation’s historical heroes. Priyanka Neogi urges people to achieve personal greatness by working hard to develop their talents and growing in their character and respect for others.
As an example of scientific research, Davlatyorova Iqbol outlines the medical causes of and treatments for hyperglycemia. Anorov Sirojiddin outlines approaches to treating urological diseases. Turning to the arts, Federico Wardal points out two films, flautist Andrea Ceccomori’s “Anita” and Joe Mantegna’s “Kamilah the Miracle Filly,” which have crossed national borders to be featured in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Italy.
Oyatillo Jabboraliev highlights the value of student exchange programs for helping young people learn life skills as well as cultural literacy. Mamatova Diyora explores ways to help students stay motivated to learn foreign languages they don’t frequently hear. Munisa Asimova reflects on the work of a caring teacher who helped her achieve her writing dreams, and Sobirjonova Rayhona also offers up a poetic tribute to a dedicated teacher. Rakhmonova Diyorakhon discusses the importance of experiential and participatory education for young people. Muslima Olimova announces the launch of her online startup which aims to help young people around the world learn the skills that will prepare them for work and also outlines the advantages of different backend programming languages.
Ibodullayeva Dilnura analyzes the effects of combining online and in-person education. Surayo Nosirova relates her experience with an environmental education project involving young people in solving today’s challenges. Odina Bahodirova highlights the role of environmental education in promoting future sustainability.
Rushana Raupova celebrates the wonder and joy children can bring to the world and her dedication to benefiting them with her life. Aytuvova Khurshida outlines the importance of integrating the latest psychology findings into children’s education.
Mario Loprete renders urban style into the gallery with concrete tributes to rap and culture. Sabina G’iyosiddinova builds upon and expands traditional Uzbek art styles in her abstract work.
Dr. Jernail S. Anand suggests a positive role for artificial intelligence in enhancing human life and promoting pro-social behavior. Tursunova Ismigul suggests strategies, including technology-based platforms, to improve access to healthcare in rural communities.
Speaking of traditional rural villages, Manik Chakraborty revels in gentle, sunny village life. Holding onto the world with a light touch does not mean giving up one’s love for one’s world, heritage or past. Maftuna Rustamova honors the creative legacy of Uzbek poet Zulfiya Khanim. Dilnura Khahhorova affirms the importance of celebrating the traditional culture of Uzbekistan while Bektosh Kenjayev honors the self-sacrificing military heroism of historical tribal leader Shiroq. Iskandarova Dilnoza affirms her Uzbek history and culture in poetry. Mickey Corrigan reflects on the complex and intriguing life of James Bond actor Ian Fleming. John Dorsey speaks in his poetry to American culture, memory, and reflection.
David Sapp expresses thoughtful wonderment and fascination for art and the natural world. Irma Kurti speaks to excitement, love, grief, the sky’s various moods, and summer breezes. John Thomas Allen offers a mystical ode to the esoteric arts. Alan Catlin probes the uncanny side of nature in his surreal poems. Joseph Ogbonna describes a road trip where tension among fellow travelers arose, then dissipated as everyone explored the calm and quiet Nigerian countryside. Saiprakash Kuntamukkala listens to an elegant rainfall. Mahbub Alam reflects on patience and how nature blooms on its own timescale. Christina Chin and Jerome Berglund exchange tan-renga lines about mowing the lawn, ants crawling, film noir, and many other topics.
Mary Bone remembers outdoor winter celebrations with friends and family. Brian Barbeito reflects on escaping a garish urban landscape by taking refuge by the sea. Don Bormon speaks to the vast natural renewal each year after the monsoon rains.
Sometimes remembrance is tinged with sorrow. Poet Hassane Ajbouh carries forth an ecstatic spiritual love through writing of his departed beloved. Mesfakus Salahin’s poetry evokes the pain of separation from a loved one amid the hot monsoon rains. Duane Vorhees writes figuratively, yet sensually, of romantic pairings of opposites and of people left longing or bereft after someone leaves. Greg Hill sends up images of fall, loss, and departure, contrasted with a lively preteen sleepover.
Paul Murgatroyd evokes death, decay, and the persistent memory of youth. J.J. Campbell speaks to aging, disillusionment, loneliness, frustration, and despair. Taylor Dibbert’s narrator reflects on the long shadow of his beloved dog’s memory. Leslie Lisbona mourns a friendship of many years that went awry after her friend’s move and some off-base comments. Mirta Liliana Ramirez remembers a person she lost by the sea they both loved. Stephanie Elendu’s short story presents three different characters grieving the deaths of school children in a Nigerian truck accident from three different perspectives.
Mykyta Ryzhykh speaks to love, physical passion, death, the extreme trauma of wartime, and the psychological violence of having to hide a big part of himself. Palestinian poet Ahmed Miqdad looks to death as a release from the extreme suffering he sees in Gaza and Eva Petropoulou Lianou interviews himabout his writing and his hopes for peace and human rights in the region. Abdulrasheed Yakubu Ladan also speaks to the human suffering in Gaza and the people’s determination to survive. Patricia Doyne lampoons Donald Trump and the state of American politics and the possibility of war. Noah Berlatsky grieves the loss of a loved one to social violence at the hands of laws and lawmakers who said they didn’t belong, reminding us of the human cost of policies.
Yuldasheva Oyshakhon reminds us to cherish our parents while we have them. Bill Tope remembers the unspoken rejection he felt after losing his father. Maja Milojkovic recollects the ways her deceased father made an impact on her life. Dan Flore writes of the lingering effects of divorce on now-adult children. Abigail George reflects on her loneliness and depression when her own mother forgot her birthday, and how she found comfort from looking to writers and the human experience.
Sayani Mukherjee speaks to feeling part of nature’s family, one of the plethora of creatures in a continually changing universe. Mohidil Sultanova evokes the joy, wonder, and community of a vibrant Uzbek street market, where she can feel the pulse of humanity interacting. Mahmudova Sevara uses cuisine as a lens to explore points of intersection between Uzbek and Korean culture. Bazarbaeva Inabat analyzes business connections between Thailand’s media and tourism industries.
Images c/o Mohidil Sultanova
Several students cover themes of cultural exchange within the field of linguistics. Hafizullayeva Kamolaxon outlines the influence of Turkish on the Uzbek language. Nigora Abdurazzakova explores cognitive development in children bilingual in Russian and Uzbek. Tojimurodova Latofat discusses ways to help speakers of Russian, Uzbek, and English remember words. Aliasqarova Muslima discusses attitudes towards regional and country dialects in the Uzbek language. Baxtiyorova Feruza’s essay deals with the role of common nouns and verbs in Uzbek and English speech. Berdiyorova Nargiza compares idiomatic expressions in English and Uzbek. Jo’rayeva Aziza explores multimodal teaching methodologies for Uzbek as a foreign language. Odilova Diyora looks into how translation strategies impact the interpretation of culturally specific terms in Uzbek. Sa’dullayeva Dilshoda highlights the role of language preservation in claiming and reclaiming culture and identity. Nasirova Xurshedabonu looks into ways to help students gain confidence in speaking foreign languages.
Sometimes we experience life as if it’s been mistranslated, as if we aren’t sure exactly what’s happening and what to make of our circumstances and senses. Mark Young writes of off-kilter scenes from daily life, observed from a distance. Iduoze Abdulhafiz escorts us through a holographic world of surreal prose. Yongbo Ma recollects a hazy dream about attempting to repair a muddy road, then adding to the confusion.
Christopher Bernard reflects on what it means to age when one never quite fit with one’s own generation.
Ben Nardolilli explores possibility and reality, human minds and our role in the universe, and suggests that we belong here. Wansoo Kim urges us to pull out of selfishness and despair and follow our consciences as guides. Nasir Aijaz perseveres in his life despite society’s many ills. Jasmina Ergasheva expresses resilience and hope for her future. Murodillayeva Mohinur reflects on her determination to rise towards her dreams even amidst obstacles.
Vo Thi Nhu Mai contributes a gentle, tender love story where a young man finally gets up the courage to embrace his first beloved. Isaac Aju crafts a hopeful, second-chance romance. Sushant Thapa’s piece celebrates friendship and art’s power to encourage the soul.
Peter Cherches contributes a humorous poem making a bold claim to its own existence. Svetlana Rostova highlights the power of words and ventures to rewrite her own story. We hope that this issue inspires and frees you to do the same in your own words and media.
Abstract: This article presents a comprehensive analysis of environmental education and its pivotal role in advancing sustainable development. It systematically delineates the concept of sustainable development by explicating its three fundamental pillars: environmental integrity, economic viability, and social equity. The discussion further elucidates how environmental education enhances ecological literacy, fosters environmentally responsible behaviors, and underpins the formulation and implementation of sustainable policies. Various pedagogical approaches are examined in detail, accompanied by practical examples to demonstrate the effective promotion of sustainability through education. Finally, the article addresses the prevailing challenges within environmental education systems and offers strategic recommendations aimed at their global enhancement, thereby informing future policy and educational practice.
In recent decades, the world has witnessed unprecedented environmental challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss, deforestation, soil degradation, water scarcity, and pollution. These issues threaten the delicate balance of ecosystems and the very foundations of human well-being. The concept of sustainable development has emerged as a global paradigm aimed at harmonizing economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection. It recognizes that economic advancement should not come at the expense of the natural environment or social equity. The success of sustainable development initiatives depends significantly on the ability of societies to understand and address the complex interrelations between human activities and the environment.
Environmental education is a crucial instrument in achieving this understanding. It equips individuals with the scientific knowledge, critical thinking skills, ethical values, and practical competencies needed to confront and mitigate environmental problems. By fostering ecological literacy, environmental education enables learners to recognize the causes and consequences of environmental degradation and to participate actively in conservation and sustainability efforts. Furthermore, it supports the development of environmentally responsible citizens who can influence policy-making and promote sustainable lifestyles.
Given the multifaceted nature of sustainability challenges, environmental education must transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries and integrate scientific, social, economic, and ethical dimensions. It should be inclusive and accessible, reaching diverse audiences across different age groups and social backgrounds. The educational process must also be continuous, adapting to emerging environmental issues and scientific advancements. In this context, environmental education represents not only a tool for raising awareness but also a catalyst for transformative change toward sustainable development. This article aims to explore the fundamental concepts of environmental education and sustainable development, their interconnections, pedagogical approaches, challenges, and prospects for effective implementation globally.
Environmental education is a systematic and multidisciplinary approach that integrates ecological, economic, social, and cultural dimensions to foster an understanding of the natural world and humanity’s role within it. It aims to equip learners with a blend of knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values necessary for responsible environmental stewardship. Its core objectives are multifaceted:
-it facilitates the acquisition of scientific knowledge about ecosystems, biodiversity, pollution, and climate dynamics;
-it cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills that empower learners to assess complex environmental challenges;
-it instills ethical attitudes that promote respect for the environment and a commitment to sustainable behavior;
-it encourages active participation in community and policy initiatives aimed at environmental conservation.
By bridging disciplines, environmental education encourages holistic perspectives that transcend fragmented views of nature and society. For example, understanding climate change requires knowledge of atmospheric science, economics of energy consumption, social justice implications, and political governance. Thus, environmental education prepares individuals to navigate and address environmental issues with a comprehensive and integrative mindset.
Sustainable development is conceptualized through three interrelated pillars—environmental integrity, economic viability, and social equity—that collectively aim to secure human well-being and planetary health. The environmental pillar emphasizes maintaining ecosystem services, conserving biodiversity, minimizing pollution, and ensuring sustainable resource use. Environmental education promotes this by fostering awareness of ecological limits and the consequences of unsustainable practices. It informs individuals about ecosystem functions, human impacts such as deforestation and pollution, and the urgency of mitigating climate change.
The economic pillar focuses on fostering economic systems that support growth without degrading natural capital. Environmental education facilitates sustainable economic behaviors by teaching principles of resource efficiency, green technologies, and circular economy models. It encourages consumers and producers alike to adopt sustainable consumption and production patterns that reduce waste and energy use. The social pillar addresses issues of equity, justice, education, and participation. Education is fundamental here, as it empowers marginalized populations to engage in environmental governance, ensures equitable access to environmental benefits, and fosters inclusive decision-making processes. By promoting social awareness and equity, environmental education contributes to building resilient and just communities capable of sustainable development. Together, these pillars require a synergistic approach where environmental education acts as the connecting force. It provides the knowledge and values that underpin sustainable policies and practices, enabling societies to reconcile ecological health, economic development, and social well-being.
Furthermore, ecological awareness entails an in-depth understanding of the environment’s structure, functions, and the complex interrelations between natural and human systems. Environmental education enhances this awareness by delivering scientific literacy, systems thinking, ethical frameworks, and actionable skills. Scientific literacy involves educating learners about fundamental ecological concepts such as energy flow, nutrient cycles, species interactions, and climate processes. This knowledge equips individuals to grasp how ecosystems operate and the consequences of disturbances caused by pollution, habitat destruction, or overconsumption. Systems thinking is crucial for comprehending the interdependencies between environment, economy, and society. Learners are encouraged to analyze how changes in one component, such as industrial activity, cascade through ecosystems and affect human health and livelihoods. This holistic perspective prevents reductionist views and promotes integrated solutions. Ethical education within environmental curricula fosters values such as stewardship, responsibility, and intergenerational equity. It challenges anthropocentric attitudes and emphasizes the intrinsic worth of all living organisms and ecosystems. Lastly, environmental education imparts practical skills and encourages behavior changes. For example, it teaches waste segregation, energy conservation techniques, sustainable agriculture, and participation in local environmental initiatives. By combining knowledge with action, environmental education ensures that ecological awareness translates into sustainable lifestyles.
Effective environmental education is grounded in a diverse array of interactive and learner-centered pedagogical strategies that stimulate active engagement and promote deeper conceptual understanding. Central to this approach is experiential learning, wherein learners engage directly with natural environments through activities such as fieldwork, ecological restoration projects, and community-based environmental service. These immersive experiences not only bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application but also cultivate intrinsic motivation and foster affective connections with nature.
An interdisciplinary pedagogical framework is essential for addressing the complexity of sustainability-related challenges. By integrating perspectives from natural sciences, economics, sociology, and ethics, environmental education encourages holistic thinking and equips learners with the capacity to navigate and resolve problems that transcend disciplinary boundaries. Moreover, the incorporation of advanced digital tools—such as simulations, virtual and augmented reality, and multimedia platforms—enhances accessibility, caters to diverse learning preferences, and enables the visualization of complex environmental data in engaging and comprehensible formats.
Community engagement plays a critical role in reinforcing environmental education. By participating in locally-relevant educational initiatives and collaborating with stakeholders, learners gain practical experience with the social and cultural dimensions of environmental issues. Such involvement reinforces the real-world applicability of classroom instruction and nurtures a sense of civic responsibility. Furthermore, critical pedagogy—which emphasizes reflection, dialogue, and critical inquiry—encourages learners to interrogate dominant environmental narratives and consider transformative pathways toward sustainable futures. When integrated, these pedagogical approaches render environmental education a dynamic, participatory, and empowering process, cultivating informed and proactive agents of change.
Despite its significance, the global implementation of environmental education faces persistent challenges. In many educational systems, environmental topics are treated peripherally within curricula, lacking comprehensive integration across disciplines. This marginalization reduces their effectiveness and limits student exposure to sustainability principles. A significant barrier is the inadequate preparation of educators; many teachers lack both subject-matter expertise in environmental science and the pedagogical skills necessary for delivering interdisciplinary, experiential instruction. Consequently, environmental issues are often addressed superficially or in isolation.
Infrastructural and resource limitations further impede effective environmental education, particularly in under-resourced schools and communities. The absence of necessary materials, experiential learning opportunities, and digital technologies constrains educational quality and inclusivity. Socioeconomic inequalities and cultural priorities may also diminish the perceived relevance of environmental education, especially in regions where immediate survival needs supersede long-term environmental considerations.
Additionally, fragmented institutional frameworks and weak policy support hinder the systematic integration of environmental education into national educational agendas. A lack of coordination among governmental ministries—particularly those overseeing education, environment, and sustainable development—exacerbates this issue and results in disjointed programming.
Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted and collaborative approach. Key strategies include the development of coherent policy frameworks, increased investment in educator training and professional development, curriculum reform that embeds sustainability across subject areas, and the establishment of cross-sectoral partnerships that mobilize expertise, funding, and community engagement. Only through such concerted efforts can environmental education realize its full potential as a transformative force for sustainable development.
To strengthen environmental education’s contribution to the realization of sustainable development goals, a set of strategic, evidence-based actions must be prioritized and systematically implemented. Foremost among these is the institutionalization of environmental education as a mandatory and integral element of formal education systems at all levels—from primary through tertiary education. Curricula should be structured with clearly defined learning outcomes that align with globally recognized sustainability competencies, such as systems thinking, anticipatory skills, normative competence, strategic thinking, and collaboration.
Equally critical is the establishment of continuous professional development (CPD) frameworks for educators. These programs must not only provide up-to-date scientific knowledge on environmental and sustainability issues, but also equip teachers with innovative, learner-centered pedagogical techniques. Moreover, CPD initiatives should promote interdisciplinary collaboration and integrate critical pedagogical approaches that empower educators to foster analytical thinking, ethical reasoning, and transformative learning among students.
The development of robust multisectoral partnerships is another key pillar. Collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations, academic institutions, and the private sector can facilitate the mobilization of technical expertise, financial resources, and diverse perspectives. Such synergies enrich the relevance, contextualization, and impact of environmental education by bridging formal instruction with real-world challenges and community-based action.
Promoting inclusivity is fundamental to ensuring that environmental education advances both sustainability and social justice. Educational initiatives must be culturally responsive, linguistically accessible, and sensitive to the socio-economic realities of marginalized and vulnerable populations, including indigenous communities, rural dwellers, and low-income groups. Tailored interventions are necessary to overcome structural barriers to participation and to foster equitable learning environments.
Finally, the implementation of rigorous monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems is essential for tracking progress, assessing pedagogical effectiveness, and measuring behavioral and attitudinal change over time. These systems should include both quantitative and qualitative indicators, employ participatory evaluation methods, and be embedded within broader education policy frameworks. Continuous feedback mechanisms will enable adaptive learning, ensure accountability, and enhance the ability of environmental education to meaningfully contribute to long-term sustainable development outcomes.
Environmental education stands as an indispensable pillar in the pursuit of sustainable development, embodying the intersection of knowledge, values, and action. As the global community faces escalating environmental crises, the need for informed and engaged citizens has never been more urgent. By imparting comprehensive scientific knowledge and fostering critical thinking, environmental education empowers individuals to understand the complexities of environmental issues and the intricate linkages between ecological, economic, and social systems.
Moreover, environmental education instills ethical principles that nurture a profound respect for nature and a sense of responsibility toward future generations. This moral foundation is essential for motivating behavioral changes necessary for sustainability, including resource conservation, pollution reduction, and support for environmentally sound policies. In addition, by promoting inclusivity and social equity, environmental education ensures that sustainable development benefits all members of society and addresses the needs of marginalized populations.
Ultimately, environmental education is more than an academic discipline; it is a transformative process that shapes attitudes, skills, and actions toward a sustainable future. Prioritizing and strengthening environmental education within formal and informal learning systems is critical for fostering resilient communities capable of meeting the environmental, economic, and social challenges of the 21st century. Only through such comprehensive and sustained educational efforts can humanity secure the well-being of the planet and generations to come.
After the scholars leave, a miracle occurs Inside the tabernacle of their memories The occasion is etched perfectly, Spinning up an exact replica of every single detail lived
When they come back together, this power Runs in full display as the memories show off Every line, feature, rise, and lull That took place between them in their encounter
Perhaps it helps that when they gather They only talk about the last time they met, An occasion when they discussed The prior meeting’s agenda of the gathering before
We Are the Language Here
The best proof is a familiar one, apparent in the form
Of a leaf and the branches the leaf grew from
It is in the seed’s wings that carry it in the wind
Or the proboscis of the fertilizing butterfly
Is it all pretty? Sure, and that is irrelevant
Along with camouflage that tricks a predator’s eye
Plus the complexity at play within those lenses
None of it points to a creator, Only to an architect
And any architect implies there is a contractor
But who? You and I reading the blueprints for design
A way for the cosmos to show we are here and needed
Garnet Harbor
Incursions in the morning, is the sky wounded and red because I broke out
Or is the city gathering up and throwing away a fire taken from the world?
Winds rolling along my limbs try to stop me with their howling confessions
But temptations of the docks are stronger than chances to glean absolution
On the waterfront, the world lays down a deck of unfolding designs to scry
Black ships pierce and sail along the horizon, floating pyramids and hotels
From shore to shore, a rebirth of cargo and destinations, rewards of new use
Claim Your Jar Today
When will I stop overpaying on my car insurance? When will I begin to pay it? And when will I get my car? I never wanted one, until now, seeing what I am missing out on, another deal, another steal, a sudden way to get one over on others has opened up, and I want it to take me
Maybe then my scores will finally rise, my days will be a bonus, and the hours no longer tiny devices that prolong a life that keeps losing on the draw, and why? Because I am of the eligible, newly worthy to know a secret that unlocks a hidden world of fabulous savings
Schmutz and Length
In the morning, the estuary of possibility swirls And flows in between the bed and front door
Each step across the hardwood and tiled stone Brings in the heat of an afternoon coalescing
Hints of the trimming future hours undertake, Potential adventures cut off at the budding branch
Ben Nardolilli is a theoretical MFA candidate at Long Island University. His work has appeared in Perigee Magazine, Door Is a Jar, The Delmarva Review, Red Fez, The Oklahoma Review, Quail Bell Magazine, and Slab. Follow his publishing journey at mirrorsponge.blogspot.com.
Rhian Elizabeth’s maybe i’ll call gillian anderson speaks to the liminal spaces we experience as we transition from one role to another in our relationships.
The book begins with the titular piece where a lonely mom says goodbye to a daughter moving away to college. Next, the same narrator has an elaborate dream of befriending an elderly stranger who comforts her after the loss of her own grandmother and father (drowning on a stranger’s couch). Other pieces depict a mom who feels needed again while caring for a drunken teenager (a new and precarious thing) and a still-grieving queer woman who remembers how in an ill-fated relationship, her lover’s snoring sounded too much like her deceased grandmother’s tea kettle (to the girl who said i’ll never be happy because i’m too picky).
Grief becomes a motif in this collection, which includes pieces referencing the losses of the narrator’s father, grandmother, and past lovers. Sometimes the losses are the focus of the poems, other times they’re mentioned as asides adding depth to a piece on another topic. The daughter’s move towards adulthood becomes a catalyst for the narrator to take stock of her life and consider how she will navigate 40 years of grief and self-discovery.
The prose is all lower case with contractions and some punctuation shorthands (the & sign) giving the book a familiar feeling, like reading the narrator’s Instagram posts. In keeping with this, she includes tidbits of unglamorous daily life: killing spiders, vomiting, drinking soda for breakfast.
She also speaks openly of trauma from verbal abuse at work (glasgow) and sexual abuse from a creepy older man (the photograph & the man who took it). And, of her own awkward past, complete with mornings hung over with strange women in her bed (i drank too much and woke up in sweden next to a blonde) and a relationship that made her feel like a trapped lobster in a cage (lobster).
Dreams and dream-states serve as another motif in this collection. Characters have actual dreams, sleepwalk, get lost and knock on the wrong doors, have lengthy waking reveries, and drive through fog. Being halfway between waking and sleeping echoes the liminal spaces in which the narrator finds herself and also the dislocation of grief and of major life transitions.
In the end, the book comes full circle, checking in with the lonely mother whose daughter left home (i didn’t call gillian anderson). Remembering that she “learned a long time ago that beautiful women aren’t the solution to [her] problems and because, you know, [she doesn’t] have her fucking phone number,” she decides against calling actress Gillian Anderson. Instead, she finds her confidence and her center, meditating, going back to school, reconnecting with friends, and nervously wishing her daughter all the best.
