Promoting sustainability in the school curriculum is an important initiative, but it’s equally crucial to raise environmental awareness outside of the classroom. Language schools and international education institutions have a unique opportunity to do this by hosting fun eco-friendly student events. Here are some ideas for schools looking to take a holistic approach to sustainability.

Organise impactful recycling schemes 

Why not transform recycling into an exciting cross-cultural learning experience? Schools could set up projects where teams from different countries showcase their home country’s recycling practices, or get student teams to compete in collecting and sorting materials. 

Set up energy-saving challenges 

Energy-saving challenges are also a great way of encouraging friendly competition for a good cause. Schools and universities could launch month-long initiatives where different classes or student dormitories compete to reduce their energy consumption by using smart metres to track progress and display real-time results. Students could also share energy-saving tips from their home countries, creating a global perspective on conservation.

Host sustainable international fairs

Another idea is to create eco-fairs celebrating sustainable practices from around the world. Set up booths featuring environmental initiatives from different countries, sustainable food practices, and green technologies. 

Make all events zero-waste

It’s also key that the events themselves model sustainability. Implement a comprehensive zero-waste strategy for all school events by:

• Using digital invitations and event materials in multiple languages
• Providing clearly marked waste stations with pictorial guides
• Collaborating with local composting services
• Renting or borrowing any equipment instead of buying it new
• Providing refreshments that are in season and locally-sourced
• Partnering with local food banks to manage any surplus food

With these green event ideas, schools and universities can create engaging experiences that both benefit the environment and enhance students’ global perspective on sustainability. Want to learn more sustainable tips and tricks for your school? Keep following our Sustainable Wednesday series!

Written by Stephanie Clark