FEATURE FOCUS: SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainability in schools: a world of opportunity
Education Today’s Managing Editor, CHARLOTTE WESTWOOD, explores how schools can start to build a culture of sustainability - inside and outside the classroom
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here’s no getting around the fact that sustainability is a topic schools need to be teaching - and not just in the classroom. After all, schools are in a unique and privileged position when it comes to laying the groundwork for a greener future and a protected planet.
Beyond educating future generations on the importance of protecting the planet, they also have the opportunity to foster a culture of sustainability within their own operations - a culture which children can carry with them after they leave education. So, in what ways can schools look to embed a culture of sustainability - and why should they bother to do so?
Steps towards sustainability
When it comes to creating an school environment that operates more sustainably, there are many options for schools to consider:
Energy efficiency - One of the most impactful ways for schools to reduce their carbon footprint is by focusing on energy efficiency. Schools can start by conducting energy audits to identify areas where energy consumption can be reduced. Simple changes like switching to LED lighting, installing smart thermostats, and ensuring that heating and cooling systems are energy-efficient can result in substantial reductions in energy use.
Schools should also consider installing solar panels, which can generate renewable energy and reduce reliance on the grid. Solar panels can provide a long-term return on investment and help schools lower their energy costs while contributing to the overall reduction of fossil fuel use. Moreover, schools can take advantage of government incentives and subsidies for renewable energy projects, making such investments more financially feasible.
Waste management and recycling - Reducing waste is another key area for schools
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to focus on. By promoting a culture of recycling and reusing, schools can significantly cut down the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. Schools should provide clearly marked bins for recycling materials such as paper, plastic, and glass, ensuring that students and staff know where to dispose of waste.
In addition to recycling, schools can implement waste reduction strategies, such as composting organic waste from lunchrooms. This not only helps to divert waste from landfills but also creates valuable compost that can be used for school gardens or donated to local community projects.
Saving water - Water usage in schools is another area where sustainability measures can make a difference. Installing water-saving devices, such as low-flow toilets, taps, and showerheads, can reduce water consumption significantly. Schools can also implement rainwater harvesting systems, which collect rainwater for use in school gardens or for
December 2024
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