Schools; Eco Friendly?
How eco-friendly are schools?
The environment and how to be more eco-friendly is something high on the agenda for many schools. It is of vital importance that students learn how to protect the world around them by reducing their footprint. This can also result in potential cost-saving benefits, which is always welcome news for the Business Managers amongst us!
Over the years, I’ve experienced the various areas of environmental focus in schools. In the primary sector, there has always been an emphasis on addressing waste reduction, pollution from cars and saving electricity by turning off computers and lights. Taking buses and walk-to-school schemes have also become commonplace, with a focus on both the environment and health benefits.
Local authorities that help to fund such schemes have led to an impetus in identifying and addressing further environmental matters. As a result, the growing of fruit and vegetables in schools has become extremely popular, enabling pupils to learn about sustainability, foster a love of farming and learn about other environmental issues, such as over-farming.
Similar themes exist in secondary schools, with children becoming more aware of how environmental issues exist in their day-to-day life. In the current age of convenience, where plastic bottles and packaging are the norm, it is easy for children to get caught up in habits that are harmful to the environment.
In addition to learning about climate change in science lessons, environmental champions can help to gently drive positive behaviours amongst pupils by formulating a collective and inclusive approach. This is often an environmentally savvy member of staff who helps to rally students in creating change, work towards achieving goals and create an awards system.
Organisations such as Eco-Awards can help to consolidate these efforts and recognise the achievements of schools and groups. In reading the innovative approaches that have been developed by many schools, it is clear that the process is very rewarding and brings about meaningful change.
For those of us without a champion, it’s still easy to create positive results. Simple steps include replacing waste bins with recycling bins and adapting rubbish collection so that certain items are recyclable. Besides, encouraging students to use a reusable water bottle, turn off computers and walk their journey to school, are all a good starting point.
To help these approaches to become more sustainable and embedded in everyday life, schools must incorporate positive changes to the environment as part of their ethos. This is not only important for all our livelihoods but also has the additional benefit of saving money for schools by minimising their footprint.