West Bengal introduces environmental science in schools
In a significant academic initiative aimed at nurturing environmental consciousness and academic interest in sustainability, the West Bengal government is set to introduce Environmental Science as a subject in its school curriculum. The move, which targets senior secondary students, is designed to equip them with early exposure and foundational knowledge in the field.
The introduction will be phased, with the initial rollout covering schools in Kolkata, Howrah, Hooghly, and North and South 24 Parganas. The announcement, made in December 2024, has garnered considerable interest, with over 1,500 schools opting in ahead of the May 31 deadline.
'Until now, the higher secondary syllabus included Environmental Studies, which allocated 80% of marks for theory and 20% for project work. The new subject, Environmental Science, is being introduced with a revised structure — 70% theory and 30% practical — and will be treated as a core subject,' Dr. Priyadarshini Mallick, Secretary of the West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education and architect of the initiative, told The Hindu.
Also Read | Courses in Environmental and Sustainability Studies in the U.S.
While Environmental Studies will continue to be available as an optional subject, Dr. Mallick underlined the enhanced relevance and future prospects of Environmental Science. 'Environmental Studies has limited academic or professional progression. Environmental Science, on the other hand, is recognised at undergraduate, postgraduate, and research levels, and figures in examinations like PSC, CSC, and UPSC. By introducing it in Class 11, we are laying a systematic and strategic foundation for students' future,' she said.
The introduction has been well received by educators. Santanu Kundu, headmaster of Naihati Narendranath Vidyaniketan, remarked, 'The response from students has been very encouraging. Of the 210 science students enrolled in Class 11 this year, 40 have opted for Environmental Science. It provides a stronger academic base and a clearer pathway beyond school, unlike Environmental Studies.'
Dr. Manas Kabi, Principal of Asutosh College, echoed the sentiment. 'Environmental Science is a growing area of global research and significance. It is heartening to see students in Bengal gaining access to it at the school level. The Council deserves appreciation for taking this forward-looking step.'
Sayanti Kar, a member of the advisory committee for the subject, highlighted the broader impact. 'Environmental Science is a dynamic, multidisciplinary field. Introducing it early fosters not just academic engagement, but also a sense of responsibility. It prepares students to address environmental challenges and contribute to a sustainable future.'
The introduction of Environmental Science marks a decisive step by the West Bengal government towards aligning school education with global sustainability goals and academic relevance in a changing world.
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