A sustainable school:
- works towards ecological sustainability by reducing its ecological impact
- fosters lifelong environmental citizenship among students and teachers, and
- encourages the local community to join in its commitment to ecological sustainability.
How NSW schools can approach sustainability
NSW schools are encouraged to approach sustainability by developing, implementing and reviewing a School Environmental Management Plan (SEMP). This plan integrates long and short-term environmental goals, with teaching and learning activities. Help with Planning>
The SEMP is an agreement throughout the school community to work together towards ecological sustainability. It provides an opportunity for the school community to reflect, celebrate, experiment and enjoy the process of working together.
Developing a SEMP
The school environmental planning process involves the following steps:
- creating and documenting a vision for the whole school
- developing and implementing action plans that incorporate five key focus areas: curriculum, resource management, grounds management, whole school planning and school community participation
- reviewing the outcomes and the planning process and then developing new plans.
Small steps
Outstanding Sustainable Schools have taught us that fundamental changes in environmental outcomes are the result of a slow, step-by-step process—each one needing to be celebrated and rewarded. Each school will take its own slightly different steps.
When planning environmental actions, it also becomes apparent that the ‘school system’ is much more than the school hierarchies and defined responsibilities. It’s the people and their passion for teaching and learning that create a Sustainable School.
Taking it home and beyond
Environmental education at school has a multiplier effect throughout the broader NSW population.
There are over 1 million school students in NSW (including government and non-government schools) and this equates to approximately 16% of the NSW population. This means more than 500,000 NSW families have some contact with environmental education. Environmental education at school can initiate gradual and cumulative changes to everyday family living.
To start your SEMP your school will need to be registered. Register now>
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