THE ECO–SCHOOL PROJECT

Aims of the presentation: 1. Introduce ‘Ekoskola’ – discussing the main objectives 2. Discussing the 7 steps of the ekoskola process

1. FEE: a network of NGOs 2. One member organisation per country... Nature Trust (Malta) More information: Who runs Eco-Schools?

A whole-school environmental project Increases the development of the school and its community introducing citizenship education addresses the environment not just from a natural perspective, but also from social and cultural perspectives contextualising the principles of sustainability into a way of life empowers individuals with the responsibility and the means to bring about change Awards (green flag) What is Ekoskola Project?

The Seven Steps of the EkoSkola process Source:

Environmental Review Action Plan Monitoring & Evaluation Curriculum Work Informing & Involving Eco Code Eco Schools Committee

The committee is the core of the EkoSkola process, responsible for organising and directing activities. Consisting of different members working in the school community (pupils, teachers, cleaners, caretakers, and parents). Whatever the type of school or age group, student involvement in the committee is essential. EkoSkola Committee

Work begins with an environmental audit of the school with the aim of identifying issues for action. Pupils are involved in this work from assessing the level of litter on school grounds to checking the building for inefficiencies such as leaky taps or electric equipment left on overnight. Environmental Review

The information from the review is used to identify priorities and create an action plan, which sets realistic targets to improve environmental performance. Action Plan

Ensures that progress towards targets and any necessary changes to the action plan are made and that achievement is recognised. It also ensures that environmental education is an on- going process in the school. Monitoring & Evaluation

Classroom study of themes such as energy, water and waste are undertaken by most students. The whole school should be involved in practical initiatives - for example, saving water, recycling materials and preventing litter. Curriculum Work

 Energy consumption  Water usage  Cleaning  Consumer patterns  Waste generation  Waste management  Paper usage  Vandalism  Nutrition patterns  Healthy lifestyles  Transport  Road safety  Landscaping  Buildings  Cultural heritage  Leisure facilities Curriculum Work

Schools are encouraged to interact with the wider community when preparing action plans. Promote the school ekoskola programme through classroom displays, assemblies, press coverage, website and write ups. Informing & Involving

EkoSkola Committee Outreaching process

A school that implements the seven steps of the programme can apply for one of the three EkoSkola awards: a bronze certificate, a silver certificate or a Green Flag … depending on how much it has achieved. The Awards

National EkoSkola Co-ordinator Regional EkoSkola Officer Seminars promoting a whole school approach for link teachers and students electronic local EkoSkola newsletter Support given