In this activity, students will analyze the potential for reforestation and reversal of coral bleaching to increase global CO2 capture. Reestablishment of native species in terrestrial and aquatic biomes benefits not only local ecosystems but global health. After examining the role of trees and corals, students will interpret the need for increased efforts to preserve these vital components of the biosphere. Students will have the opportunity to recognize, interpret, examine, and judge the importance of reforestation or aquatic restoration in their own communities. 

Students will watch documentary clips from PBS' The Age of Nature, identify central ideas and key details, and ask clarifying questions. Students will work individually or in pairs to research land use data in their own community. Using available data, satellite maps, and conventional maps, students will assess available land areas for reforestation of aquatic restoration. Students will work individually or in pairs to interpret and graph data for global CO2, ocean temperatures. Students will interpret and graph data from the provided tables. The final project of designing a restored area reinforces understanding while prompting skills such as communication and creativity. 

Several thematic concepts have been introduced in the lesson:

● ecological restoration

● sustainable practice

● community and ecosystem balance

● the human role in the environment

About the Author: Sebastian Byers teaches Earth and Environmental Science, AP Biology and AP Environmental Science. He is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and received his teaching certification from UNC Charlotte. He obtained his Masters in Educational Leadership from Queens University of Charlotte and is a Master Teacher Trainer with UNCTV. He is a 2018 PBS Digital Innovator All-Star and has co-hosted multiple Virtual Professional Learning Series with PBS.