Eco-friendly schools are an element of sustainability action in the community that provides the most hope for the future. We regularly work with local schools and discuss ways they can take a step towards fostering a greater culture of sustainability among students and teachers, as well as the wider community.
During our time working closely with schools, we’ve found an open and receptive audience — a generation of young people who are passionate about the planet and are willing to do their part. Here are a few practical eco-friendly schools ideas that can help schools become more environmentally friendly and promote sustainability practices.
Waste Reduction:
- Promote Zero Waste: Surfers Against Sewage, one of our partners, runs Plastic Free Schools which gives the power to the pupils by enabling them to push fellow students, staff, and parents to prioritise zero-waste wherever possible.
- Recycling Stations: Kids are passionate about recycling. If you set up clearly marked recycling areas around the school, students and staff will do their part.
- Composting: The introduction of a composting program for any organic waste on site can help enrich the soil and minimise wastage.
Greener School Initiatives:
- School Gardens: Creating a blossoming garden on-site can teach students about biodiversity, food production, and the importance of green spaces.
- Tree Planting: You can organise tree-planting events to improve air quality while acting as a living lesson in science and the environment.
- Biodiversity Projects: Consider creating habitats on your grounds for local wildlife to thrive. This can include birdhouses, insect hotels, and ponds — to emphasise the benefits of biodiversity. For more information, see Chester Zoo’s Wildlife Connection Schools Project.
- Alternative Food Options: By sourcing more local foods and normalising the offering of more vegetarian and plant based options as standard on the menu, schools can further reduce their impact.
Eco-Education and Engagement:
- Environmental Education: Integrate sustainability topics into school activities where possible. By offering hands-on learning experiences you can make the process more engaging and, ultimately, more fun.
- Eco Clubs: Eco clubs are becoming popular among schools and students alike. Pupils can participate in environmental projects and awareness campaigns, including recycling drives and community clean-ups. For more information see the Keep Britain Tidy Eco Schools programme.
