Why prioritise sustainability?
There’s no question: today’s schools are juggling a multitude of complex priorities. But in a rapidly changing world, sustainability is fast becoming a non-negotiable, essential for schools and students alike. Here's why we believe schools should put sustainability at the top of their to-do list.
Support student wellbeing
A 2022 global survey of young people found that 91% reported being affected by climate change. And yet, too often children are left out of climate action. Practical opportunities to be part of school-level impact not only help students learn about climate change; they also mean students have the tools and knowledge they need to address and shape the world around them.
Save money
The energy crisis has led to an exponential increase in operational costs, especially gas and electricity. Improving school sustainability can significantly reduce emissions and save money on bills, putting money back in the school budget for the things that really matter. In just one example, student-led campaigns helped one school reduce average monthly consumption of electricity by 28%.
Build essential skills
The demand for green skills is growing rapidly, as governments and businesses seek to deliver on their net zero commitments. Despite this growing importance, just one in eight workers globally has one or more of these essential skills. Embedding sustainability now will help ensure your students have the skills, knowledge, and experience they need to succeed in a greener future.
Support staff priorities
Educators are calling for sustainability in their workplace. In one global survey, 95% of teachers stated that it was important or very important to teach about climate change. Respond to these demands for action by leading a whole-school, measurable approach to sustainability. In turn, you will help support staff recruitment and retention by recognising and responding to your team.
Show your school cares
Student-led eco actions make positive news stories, positioning your school as progressive and values-driven. Embedding these actions as part of a whole-school approach takes your good news stories from one-off pieces to a movement that your school and parent community can be part of. Show that your students and leadership care about sustainability and set your school apart from the crowd.
Join a global movement
Educators around the world are recognising the importance of sustainability in and through education. Over 85 governments now endorse a Declaration on Climate Education launched at COP28 and UNESCO has called for education for sustainable development to be part of the core curriculum by 2025. Start your journey now and be at part of this growing global movement.
Organisations we love
There are many excellent sustainability organisations, resources, and tools out there - so many in fact that it can be hard to know where to get started.
Here we have gathered a shortlist of our go-to resources to support your sustainability journey.
Ages: 5-14 years
WWF UK offers a wide range of free resources to support schools and pupils to learn about sustainability. Topics covered include climate change, food, waste, oceans, forests, animals, and more. Resources can be filtered by age, topic, curriculum link, or type. Your local WWF affiliate may have specific or translated resources for your geography, and we encourage you to seek out your local WWF website.
Ages: Varied
Young Climate Warriors supports schools and students to advance climate literacy and take climate action. Through free weekly challenges, students are encouraged to take part in bite-size climate activities across a wide range of issues. The website includes an archive of these challenges, Eco-Club Resources, and more.
Ages: 4-18 years
The Transform Our World website includes a wide range of free resources and opportunities, from single lessons to long-term programs. Topics covered include sustainability as well as the Sustainable Development Goals, careers, and wellbeing. All resources are picked and rated by teachers based on criteria such as impact, opportunity for student leadership, and practicality.
Ages: Varied
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Climate Action Superheroes are a fun and engaging tool to empower children to be changemakers. Each of the eight characters are focussed on a different SDG and come with a 'mission', supported by an action pack that children can complete with an adult.
How to get started with climate action
1
As a parent
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Raise your voice: make the case for sustainability action in conversations.
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Be realistic: Suggest small, sustainable habit shifts.
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Unite: Gather like-minded colleagues to join you.​
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2
As a member of staff
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Start the conversation: talk to other parents and staff about why this matters now.
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Gather: Unite with other parents - the more parents raise it, the more reasons the school has to act.
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3
As a student
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Spark a debate: Talk to your friends about this issue.
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Advocate: Make a call to action to your teachers and headteachers.
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Campaign: Raise awareness of the urgency of sustainability action in your community.