Louisiana’s rich and dynamic environment encompasses a vast area of land, water, and culture that must be sustained for future generations. Our natural resources are the lifeblood of the state, and nurturing a healthy environment requires that we make wise decisions about using these resources. The vision of the Louisiana Environmental Literacy Plan (ELP) is to establish a population that understands, feels connected to, and is inspired to protect, preserve, and restore our environment forpresent use and future sustainability. This means that “environmentally literate” citizens will have the knowledge, tools, and sensitivity to thoughtfully explore environmental issues; select optimal actions to mediate problems; and routinely include the environment as a crucial element in their work, play, and daily life.

To foster an environmentally literate populace, citizens should:
• Have opportunities to experience and learn about our natural environment;
• Understand human impact on the environment;
• Develop a sense of stewardship towards the Earth and its finite resources; and
• Choose actions that protect and nurture the natural environment.

The purpose of the Louisiana ELP is to develop a comprehensive strategy that will provide children and adults throughout Louisiana with a multi-disciplinary approach to environmental education. The plan recommends actions that ensure all citizens have the opportunity to connect with nature in positive ways and thus become informed and responsible stewards of our environment. Research shows that more time spent outdoors often leads to increased environmental literacy, with individuals becoming more involved in stewardship and volunteer activities to protect, enhance, and conserve our natural resources and fragile ecosystems.