Champions of the Environment
Forecasted
Champions of the Environment supports South Carolina K–12 schools with hands-on environmental education projects that engage students, protect natural resources, and create lasting community benefits.
Funder: South Carolina Department of Environmental Services
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $2,500 for one school year; Merit Awards up to $1,500
Summary: Supports South Carolina K–12 schools undertaking student-involved environmental education projects with lasting environmental and community benefits.
Key Information: Solid-waste reduction projects, including recycling and composting, are not eligible.
Description
Champions of the Environment supports environmental education projects at South Carolina K–12 schools. Sponsored by the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES), Dominion Energy, and Sylvamo, with assistance from the Environmental Education Association of South Carolina, the program encourages youth environmental awareness, behavior change, and protection of natural resources.
Projects may address cleaner air or water, healthier soil, improved wildlife habitat, water or energy efficiency, or resource conservation through one comprehensive program or multiple activities. The program emphasizes tangible environmental benefits, hands-on student participation, community education, and lasting educational value. Supported work has included schoolyard wildlife habitats, water-quality monitoring, school gardens, and sustainable energy initiatives. Eligible schools may also purchase supplies for programs such as SC Adopt-a-Stream and PurpleAir.
