Climate Action in Schools

1. Energy conservation
2. Waste reduction campaigns
3. Waste management tips
4. Smarter travel
5. Sustainable gardening projects 
6. Climate change education
7. Student-led initiatives
8. Water conservation

Energy conservation

Implement energy-saving measures in your school to reduce carbon emissions. Encourage students and staff to:

• Turn off lights when not in use.
• Use energy-efficient bulbs and appliances.
• Implement energy-saving settings on computers and electronic devices.
• Conduct an energy audit to identify areas for improvement.

Waste reduction campaigns

Initiate waste reduction campaigns to minimise waste generation:

• Set up recycling stations with clear signage.
• Implement a ‘Zero Waste’ lunch policy encouraging reusable containers and cutlery.
• Organise regular waste audits to track progress and identify further reduction opportunities.
• Launch a composting programme for organic waste.
• Organise a school supplies or uniform swap event to reduce waste and promote reuse.

Waste management tips

• Recycling: ‘Clean, Dry, and Loose’: Ensure all recyclable items (plastic, paper, cardboard, etc.) are clean, dry, and loose before placing them in the recycling bin.
• Food Waste: Use food waste bins in canteens and food preparation areas to collect leftover waste for composting or anaerobic digestion to create green energy.
• General Waste: Only place non-recyclable items in the general waste bin. Think twice before using this bin.
• Deposit Return Scheme (DRS): Implemented on 1 February 2024, this scheme charges a deposit on certain single-use containers, refunded upon return for recycling.

For more disposal tips, use the A-Z Waste Guide 

Order free stickers and download posters for your school at MyWaste.ie 

Smarter travel

Promote sustainable transportation options for students and staff:

• Organise carpooling schemes.
• Encourage walking or cycling to school.
• Provide secure bike storage and safe cycling routes.
• Encourage use of school buses with lower emissions.

Sustainable gardening projects 

Engage students in sustainable gardening projects:

• Create a school vegetable garden to grow fresh produce.
• Use organic gardening practices and natural pest control methods.
• Incorporate composting to enrich garden soil.
• Develop a butterfly or wildlife garden to support local biodiversity.

Use the How-to Guide to plant for pollinators.

Teachers, we have a biodiversity demonstration garden. The garden shows an array of easy to implement habitats to teach students about sustainability.

Climate change education

Incorporate climate change education across various subjects:

• Include climate science in the curriculum.
• Host guest speakers and workshops on climate topics.
• Use project-based learning to explore local environmental issues.
• Organise school trips to nature reserves, renewable energy plants, or recycling centres.

Student-led initiatives

Encourage students to lead climate action initiatives:

• Form a Green Team or Greenschools Committee to plan and implement projects.
• Organise school-wide events such as Earth Day celebrations or sustainability fairs.
• Create a student-run blog or social media page to share tips and updates on climate action.
• Participate in local and national environmental campaigns and competitions.

Water conservation

Promote water conservation practices within the school:

• Install water-saving devices like faucet aerators and low-flow shower heads.
• Educate students on the importance of conserving water.
• Implement a ‘water-wise’ landscaping strategy using drought-resistant plants.
• Monitor water usage and set reduction targets.

By adopting these ideas, schools can significantly contribute to climate action while educating and inspiring students to be environmentally conscious citizens.