Analysis of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives in Environmental Education in Wisconsin

This research aims to identify the quantity, quality, and condition of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts in environmental education in Wisconsin. Researchers surveyed environmental education organizations across the state to collect and disseminate data related to the status and needs of these initiatives, and to identify areas of strength, improvement, or future staff learning opportunities. Some of the current DEI concerns in environmental education focus on the lack of diversity represented by staffing, achievement gaps represented by marginalized students, and a lack of overall accessibility to the outdoors or outdoor education for diverse communities. Findings from this study reinforce existing DEI deficits in the field, and support a need for reexamination of practices and continued development for DEI initiatives in environmental education.