In 2023, public schools in the United States produced over 14,500 tons of waste every day. This waste mostly consists of disposable plastics used for lunches, like plastic utensils, straws, and bags. Fortunately, many schools are already reducing their environmental impact, and your school can too.
With Earth Day approaching on April 22nd, we wanted to share some ways to promote sustainability and teach kids about taking care of our environment. Check out these 4 ways to improve sustainability in the classroom:
- Educate Students in Environmental Learning
The first step in improving sustainability in schools is acknowledging our environment and what we can do to help. What teachers teach students about sustainability now will affect their lifestyle choices in the coming years. Don’t wait for Earth Day to actively learn about the environment, read child-friendly articles like plastic pollution and climate change throughout the year. You can also introduce sustainability through STEM activities to give students a hands-on learning experience with an environmental science focus.
- Recycling
Recycling has multiple purposes, it reduces waste in landfills and gives significant savings in trash disposal costs for schools, while also reducing the processing of raw materials that increases pollution. Most schools should have their own recycling program already in place but need to be more active in their recycling efforts.
Repurpose supplies and letting your students get creative is also another way to recycle. Instead of just throwing out everything, maintain a habit of finding ways your class can repurpose materials. Doing a quick Google or Pinterest search can be an easy way of finding hands-on activities to practice sustainability. Crafting is a fun and fulfilling exercise with a tangible end product. Recycling can become an enjoyable part of the school curriculum and a valuable, practical form of education that engages andentertains students.
- Energy efficiency
Energy efficiency can be as simple as turning off the school lights and shutting down all the computers at the end of the day. Students and teachers should also try to limit electronic usage, especially in the colder months. When devices are used less frequently, they don’t require as much charging time. This means that less electricity is being used to power electronics. Being more conscientious of power usage can help the environment and minimize energy resources.
- Start a School Garden
School gardens can also be a great way to teach students innovative hands-on experiences and promote life-long healthy eating habits. Although science and nutrition are the main focus of many garden programs, curriculum ties can also be made to the subjects of language arts, math, science, social studies, and art. Having a school garden not only benefits a sustainable lifestyle but can also be used for social and behavior skills, improving environmental views, and promoting physical activity.
What are some things your school does to be sustainable?
Resources:
https://tristate.coop/kids-conserve-energy-for-home-school
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