Parks and recreation is a lead provider of programs and spaces where youth can learn about and connect with nature. Cultivating an interest in environmental stewardship early in a child’s life results in more environmentally conscious and conscientious adults.

Nearly every U.S. adult agrees about the importance of children and young adults learning about the environment and ways they can help be good environmental stewards in their communities. Opportunities to help communities through environmental stewardship are all around. Consider volunteering with your local park and recreation agency to clean up a neighborhood park, plant trees, protect wildlife or rally behind their environmental initiatives.

Key Findings:

• Ninety-four percent of U.S. adults agree that it is important for children and young adults to learn about the environment and ways they can help be a good environmental steward.
• Seventy-six percent of U.S. adults agree that it is extremely or very important for children and young adults to learn about the environment and ways they can help be a good environmental steward.
• Eighty-two percent of millennials and Gen Xers agree that it is extremely or very important for children and young adults to learn about the environment and ways they can help be a good environmental steward.
• Eighty-one percent of parents agree that it is extremely or very important for children and young adults to learn about the environment and ways they can help be a good environmental steward.