Exploring Nature, Building Futures: PPG Foundation Celebrates Earth Day Through Student Impact 

On a cool March morning in Huntsville, Alabama, sixth grader Maya stepped carefully into a shallow creek, net in hand, scanning the water for tiny life. Minutes later, she and her classmates held up their find: a wriggling macroinvertebrate. 

For more than 50 sixth graders, this was more than just a day at the park. The creek visit was one part of a months-long program centered on a critical question: how does community growth impact natural spaces? 

Moments like these are at the heart of a hands-on sustainability learning program conducted by the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF), in partnership with Operation Green Team, and funded by the PPG Foundation’s commitment to sustainability education. As we recognize Earth Day and the PPG Foundation’s 75th anniversary in 2026, we’re proud to spotlight partnerships like NEEF that bring sustainability education to life for students like Maya. 

From Creek to Career  

“I think every student got in the creek,” said Joel Donelan, environmental education coordinator for the City of Huntsville. “That kind of participation is where real learning begins.” 

Huntsville’s rapid growth has placed increasing pressure on local ecosystems. In response, students are stepping into the role of scientists, testing water quality, exploring wetlands and building their own filtration systems. They’re not just learning about sustainability, they’re experiencing it firsthand. 

During one session, Jason Richburg, PPG global engineering manager, joined students outdoors, connecting classroom lessons to real-world careers. 

“It reminded me why learning outside the classroom can be so powerful,” Richburg said. “The environment isn’t just something we read about—it’s something we’re all connected to and responsible for.” 

That connection is already making an impact. Donelan has seen students bring their curiosity home, influencing families and even shaping future career interests. 

“Students have a unique ability to teach those around them,” he said. “We’re seeing a real culture shift.” 

From East Point, Georgia, to Cleveland, Ohio, Greensboro, North Carolina and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, over the past several years, the PPG Foundation has supported similar NEEF programs in PPG communities. This initiative reflects the PPG Foundation’s ongoing commitment to advancing sustainability education and equipping the next generation with the knowledge and passion to build brighter communities. 

“Sustainability is an integral part of delivering on our promise to protect and beautify the world,” said Malesia Dunn, executive director, PPG Foundation and corporate global social responsibility. “We believe that STEM careers are at the cutting edge of innovation, and that they will help develop new technologies and processes to make meaningful impacts around the world. Through partnerships like NEEF, we aim to prepare this generation – and generations to come – for this important role.” 

Learn more about the PPG Foundation’s 75^th anniversary and focus areas. 

Read more about the NEEF Greening STEM grant program and partnership with PPG.