Benefits to Schools
There are many benefits to becoming an Eco-School, both academic and operational.
Student empowerment
Eco-Committee students are in charge of a democratic and participatory process. The Eco-Schools program is a good opportunity for all students to become active citizens, improving their school and community.
Curriculum development
Eco-Schools is the best approach to integrating environmental education into school curriculums, in a creative, engaging, project-based way.
Improve the school environment
Project themes include litter and school grounds.
Academic and behavioural outcomes
Eco-Schools USA demonstrate academic benefits linked to environmental education.
Eco-Schools USA Academic Benefits Factsheet
A report by Eco-Schools England shows links between the Eco-Schools program and good student behaviours, as well as good OFSTED inspection results.
Eco-Schools England – Report Summary by TES
Motivation for students and staff
The program incorporates awards – Bronze, Silver and Green Flag. Appreciation and recognition for student and staff efforts in environmental improvements and education.
Positive school image
Eco-Schools status and awards can be promoted to parents and prospective parents, the local community, and teaching community. An Eco-School is an asset to a community.
Local community connections
“Inform and involve” is one of the 7-steps in the Eco-Schools program. Local council, NGO’s and businesses will want to help their local school to become an Eco-School – a great reason for schools to harness local expertise and resources.
Environmental awareness
The program fosters positive environmental behaviours amongst students and community. Eco projects and themes are integrated into curriculum which increases students’ knowledge of environmental issues, and informing and involving the whole school and community to raise environmental awareness is part of the program too.
Financial Savings
Reduce the waste of resources like paper, energy, water.
Tried and tested approach
Eco-Schools is huge (over 59,000 schools), long-running (28 years) and world-wide (72 countries) – it’s popular and widespread because it works.
International
Compare and contrast projects and perspectives with students and teachers around Australia and even in other countries. Share environmental knowledge, as well as cultural exchange.