Schools can benefit in a number of ways by functioning more sustainably and incorporating the sustainability message into the curriculum. There are the obvious financial savings related to cutting use of energy, water, paper and other resources. However there are also several testimonials from schools involved in the eco schools initiative or similar activities suggesting real benefits in terms of school ethos and pupil engagement from being involved in this type of programme. Pupils can also use their involvement in Eco schools to work towards ASDAN awards, which can lead to formal accreditation. (see Eco schools and ASDAN links below).
Below are a few suggestions to help your school become more sustainable:
- Become an Eco-school (link below).
- Concentrate on saving resources such as energy, water and paper and aim to minimise waste.
- Raise awareness of environmental issues amongst pupils and staff and encourage them to think about saving energy, recycling, litter and other environmental initiatives at school and in the home.
- Set up a designated conservation area.
- Consider having “eco monitors” who check things such as lights being switched off, making sure taps are off in the toilets after lunchtimes etc.
- Contact the council’s School Travel Plan Co-ordinator on 01942 488260 for help creating a school travel plan.
- Start a fair-trade tuck-shop to be run by pupils/students.
- Consider offering parents the option of being contacted by email rather than letter.
- Use both sides of every sheet of paper and recycle it when it is finished with.
- Set up a walking bus. As well as easing traffic congestion and improving air quality around the school the scheme also provides exercise for children, offers the opportunity for them to learn road safety and traffic awareness under adult supervision and to socialise before they get to school meaning they are more prepared to learn when they get into the classroom. The council’s road safety team (01942 488250) can offer further advice or see the walking bus web link below.
Useful links
The following links may be helpful starting points for teachers, pupils and parents wanting to make their school more sustainable:
