Environmental Science Research Project (G8-G11)
Urban Sustainability and Recycling Systems: Environmental and Policy Factors Influencing Recycling Rates in U.S. Cities
A selective environmental science research program for motivated middle and high school students interested in sustainability, public policy, and data analysis. Guided by expert mentors, students will conduct original research on how environmental, socioeconomic, and policy factors influence recycling performance across U.S. cities. Through real-world data analysis, statistical modeling, and research writing, students will develop critical skills in environmental science and sustainable urban development.
Grades: 8–11
Format: Online | Small Group Research (3–5 students)
Duration: 16 weeks | ~5 hours/week
This project is a highly selective research program designed for middle and high school students who are passionate about exploring real-world environmental challenges through data-driven research. Under the guidance of expert mentors, students will conduct an original research study examining how urban systems, socioeconomic factors, and public policies collectively influence recycling performance across U.S. cities.
By integrating environmental data analysis, sustainability research, and policy evaluation, students will develop the critical thinking and analytical skills required of environmental scientists, sustainability researchers, and policy makers.
Students will investigate how urban environmental systems and policy interventions affect recycling outcomes in different U.S. cities. By selecting 20–30 cities, students will:
- Collect and analyze data on waste generation, recycling rates, and resource recovery
- Examine environmental indicators such as landfill diversion rates and resource efficiency
- Evaluate the impact of public policies (e.g., recycling programs, incentive systems, waste management frameworks) on environmental outcomes
- Incorporate socioeconomic variables (income, education, population, etc.) to understand interactions between human systems and the environment
- Build datasets and apply correlation and regression analyses to identify the key drivers of sustainable waste management
Project Structure (16 Weeks)
Weeks 1–4: Project setup and data collection
Weeks 5–8: Data refinement and exploratory analysis
Weeks 9–12: Statistical analysis and research writing
Weeks 13–16: Final paper writing and submission
Mentor Introduction
The project is guided by a global innovation and sustainability expert with more than 20 years of experience spanning business, technology, and public policy. The mentor has extensive expertise in social entrepreneurship, sustainability research, clean energy finance and policy (including Yale-affiliated initiatives), as well as significant experience in teaching and cultivating innovative talent.
Program Information
- Recommended Grades: Grades 8–11
- Class Size: 3–5 students per group
- Program Duration: 16 weeks
- Weekly Commitment: Approximately 5 hours per week
- Class Schedule: 2-hour group meeting each week (TBD)
- Format: Online