UNH Manchester is contributing to the national momentum in sustainable science education, thanks in part to the work of Sarah Prescott, PhD. Dr. Prescott recently co‑authored a peer‑reviewed article in RSC Sustainability examining the global impact of the Green Chemistry Teaching and Learning Community (GCTLC), a platform that supports educators teaching green and sustainable chemistry. Dr. Prescott shares,
“This publication reflects a growing national shift toward embedding sustainability and green chemistry directly into STEM education. By connecting scientific training with real‑world environmental challenges, we’re preparing students not only to understand complex systems, but to actively contribute to more sustainable and just solutions.”
The article was co‑authored with Nimrat K. Obhi, Jonathon W. Moir, Alisha Szozda, Sarah Kennedy, Omar Villanueva, and Amy S. Cannon, reflecting the teamwork and cross‑institutional collaboration at the core of the GCTLC’s mission.
What Is the GCTLC?
The GCTLC serves as an international hub where educators can share ideas, collaborate, and access high‑quality teaching resources centered on sustainability and green chemistry. Dr. Prescott played a key role in launching the platform and served as its inaugural Chief Editor and moderator, helping guide the development of a peer‑reviewed library of instructional materials and fostering a vibrant professional community.
The new study illustrates what participating educators have long described: joining the GCTLC helps them tap into stronger teaching resources, build meaningful professional connections, and gain confidence in incorporating sustainability and green chemistry concepts into their courses. The impact stretches well beyond individual classrooms; it's strengthening sustainability education worldwide.
Strengthening Sustainability Work at UNH
This research aligns closely with UNH’s established leadership in sustainability education, and Dr. Prescott is building on that momentum. Beginning this fall, she will launch Faculty Mentoring Networks (FMNs) at UNH to support faculty who are interested in integrating sustainability, green chemistry, or systems thinking into their teaching.
UNH faculty interested in sustainability, green chemistry, or the upcoming Faculty Mentoring Networks are encouraged to reach out to Dr. Sarah Prescott for more information. “I would absolutely welcome faculty to reach out. I’m always glad to connect with colleagues who are interested in integrating these approaches into their teaching or programs.”
Looking Ahead
Dr. Prescott notes that this work aligns with broader efforts at both UNH and BioQUEST to expand systems thinking, open education, and sustainability across STEM fields. She states,
“It’s especially exciting to see this work gaining momentum across institutions and communities, as it helps build a more connected and impact-driven approach to science education.”
With new initiatives emerging and global engagement continuing to grow, it’s an exciting time for educators committed to transforming the future of science education.
