Global Sustainability Lab: Transforming Remote Learning through Immersive, Experiential Sustainability Education
Konstantina Tania Ploumi
Project Team- Konstantina Tania Ploumi, Assistant Professor, Open Academy & Department of Environmental Studies, SUNY ESF, PI;
Christine Georgakakos, Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Resources Engineering, SUNY ESF, Co-PI;
Celine Krzan, Clinical Assistant Professor, University at Buffalo , Co-PI;
Dorothy Siaw-Asamoah, Clinical Professor, Director, UB CLOE, Faculty Director, Global Programs, University at Buffalo , Co-PI;
Erika Blair, Coordinator of Teaching and Learning Center, Teaching and Learning Center, SUNY ESF , Co-PI;
Jason Kohlbrenner, Digital Support Associate, Digital Storytelling Studio, SUNY ESF, Co-PI;
Katherina Searing, Assistant Dean, Graduate School, SUNY ESF, Co-PI;
Ellen White, Department of Landscape Architecture, SUNY ESF, Co-PI;
Thomas Carter, Director of International Education, Office of International Education, SUNY ESF, Co-PI
ESF Syracuse U.
2025
IITG
$59,963.00
Transferring experiential learning to online novel educational environments, the Global Sustainability Lab brings together students, experts, academics, and communities worldwide to explore and innovate sustainability strategies in a unique and immersive way. Using cutting-edge digital tools—360° virtual tours, asynchronous engagement, AI, and GIS-enabled story maps—this initiative integrates theory with real-world application. Through stakeholder engagement, hands-on projects, and solution-oriented learning, participants collaborate across cultures to develop actionable sustainability strategies that will be shared back with the participating stakeholders. AI simulations enhance learning by replicating real-world stakeholder interactions.
Aligned with SUNY online’s mission and the four pillars championed by the SUNY ESF Chancellor, this initiative transforms remote learning into a dynamic, immersive experience. Designed as a scalable model across SUNY campuses, it empowers educators to connect academic insights with tangible solutions. Our expert team includes professors from the University at Buffalo and the SUNY ESF, as well as SUNY ESF’s Teaching and Learning Center, Digital Storytelling Studio, and the Office of International Education, ensuring broad expertise and support for global, community-driven sustainability initiatives.
Project currently ongoing