In a unique collaboration for Earth Day and the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026™, students created a large-scale found-object artwork that is being showcased at the prestigious EarthX Congress of Conferences.
The project was brought to life by Yale’s Campus STEM Specialist Kelley Andrews, who recognized the opportunity to bridge the gap between environmental science and the arts. After students helped pick up trash at the park during the City of Richardson’s Annual “Trash Bash”, the project became a hands-on lesson in “circular economy”, the practice of keeping materials in use rather than discarding them, and cleaning up local parks at the same time.
Yale 4H and Art Club students collaborated to glue the found objects on large boards, placed strategically to look like a giant soccer ball. Afterwards, the objects were painted to look like the Earth as they learned about their environmental impact.
The piece, titled “Global Goal” is on display at the Hilton Anatole during the Earthx2026 conference, featuring the North Texas FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee. The initiative focuses on integrating sustainability into mega-events, discussing infrastructure, fan engagement, and climate leadership.
“This was truly a collaborative project, with many moving parts and people facilitating and guiding this project,” says Andrews. “I hope to continue to grow our district’s footprint in sustainability with some of our new STEAM goals and vision. This is a great start, and the students are motivated to do more!”
These unique experiences teach our students about global sustainability while practicing teamwork, creativity, problem-solving, and highlighting their impact on the environment.
