Eco-Schools is a growing phenomenon which encourages young people to engage in their environment by allowing them the opportunity to actively protect it.
It starts in the classroom, it expands to the school and eventually fosters change in the community at large. Through this programme, young people experience a sense of achievement at being able to have a say in the environmental management policies of their schools, ultimately steering them towards certification and the prestige which comes with being awarded a Green Flag. The Eco-Schools programme is an ideal way for schools to embark on a meaningful path towards improving the environment in both the school and the local community while at the same time having a life-long positive impact on the lives of young people, their families, school staff and local authorities.
The focus throughout is on the process and on education, however, many countries also combine it with other programmes, as it provides an integrated system for environmental management of schools based on an ISO 14001/EMAS approach. Hence the programme’s great advantage is its flexibility.
Engages students about the environment
Develops responsibility and care in staff and students
Invigorates teachers in the teaching of environmental topics and methodologies
Transforms the school to be a sustainable school
Lowers cost and saves resources
Affects communities around your school
Combines learning with hands-on experiences