Abstract:

Sustainable development increasingly depends on the responsible preservation and management of natural resources, particularly soil and water, which are fundamental to human survival and ecological balance. Preparing younger generations to understand and address these challenges is essential, as they will soon assume roles that influence environmental policies and community practices. Educating students about environmental conservation helps them develop not only technical knowledge but also a sense of responsibility and engagement with global sustainability issues. Within this context, “Green Education” emerges as a powerful framework for raising awareness, promoting environmental stewardship, and stimulating meaningful, future-oriented action.

The initiative “The Role of Mathematics in Soil Texture Classification”, presented in this paper, was designed for middle school students and is inspired by the knowledge triangle, which integrates education, research, and innovation. Its primary aim is to strengthen students’ understanding of environmental issues through the practical application of mathematical tools. The use of experimental activities allows students to engage with real data and real phenomena. This connection between abstract concepts and concrete evidence reinforces critical thinking, nurtures scientific literacy, and fosters autonomy in the learning process.

Adopting an interdisciplinary approach, the initiative demonstrates how mathematics can serve as a central link between scientific concepts and environmental sustainability. Students learn to classify different types of soil based on measurable characteristics, and evaluate of their findings. These activities help them recognize mathematics not merely as a set of procedures, but as a powerful language that supports scientific discovery and environmental interpretation. At the same time, the project encourages reflection on broader ecological and agricultural issues, aligning classroom practices with the principles and objectives of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The initiative “Mathematics and Soil Texture Classification” seeks to:
- Raise students’ awareness of sustainable agricultural practices, climate change, and the importance of responsible resource management;
- By using mathematical tools, particularly the calculation and interpretation of percentages, students can accurately determine the proportions of sand, silt, and clay, enabling precise Soil Texture Classification using the Textural Triangle;
- Validate a soil texture classification method through the systematic collection and interpretation of experimental data.

Overall, the initiative demonstrates that incorporating mathematics as an active and inquiry-based learning environment enhances students’ construction of knowledge and improves their ability to apply mathematical thinking to real-world problems. By combining environmental education, hands-on experimentation, and mathematical analysis, the project contributes to the development of effective pedagogical strategies aligned with contemporary educational demands and long-term sustainability goals.

Keywords:

Mathematics, Soil classification, Environmental awareness, Sustainability education, Middle school education, Experimental data, Interdisciplinary learning, 2030 Agenda.