With the threats of pollution, environmental degradation, and climate change now looming large in the wider conversation, it’s become especially important for each one of us to become better caretakers of the planet we all share. To make this possible, parents and educators should do what’s necessary so that the children in their care develop an appreciation of their roles in preserving the earth for future generations.
Stamford American International School does its part by offering a strong focus on sustainability and environmental stewardship as part of the educational experience. Through the school’s Field Studies and Service Learning programs, young learners get a first-hand look at various sustainability and environmental issues, not only gaining a better understanding of these but also becoming a part of the solution. Importantly, Stamford American has also earned recognition for continually promoting key pro-sustainability values as a part of the everyday learning experience.
If you’re looking to champion the understanding of environmental and sustainability issues as a teacher or school administrator, here are some ways to seamlessly incorporate them into the educational journey:
1) Integrate Environmental Themes throughout the Entire Curriculum
For students to truly develop environmental awareness as a value, conversations around it need to be worked into as many subjects as possible. Whether it’s science, geography, or even literature, incorporating themes like climate change, conservation, proper waste disposal, recycling, and renewable energy can provide students with a holistic understanding of environmental issues as they affect these various areas.
2) Create Green Classrooms
Lectures on sustainability can fall flat if the very spaces the students learn in are managed without regard for environmental impacts. If possible, find ways to implement eco-friendly practices such as meaningful recycling programs, installing energy-efficient lighting, and conserving energy by shutting off unused appliances. Walking the talk not only sets an example for students but also creates an environment that steeps them in the principles of sustainability.
3) Organize Nature Walks and Outdoor Activities
At Stamford American, students have multiple opportunities to understand environmental and sustainability issues at a deeper level through various initiatives such as the previously mentioned Field Studies and Service Learning programs. However, any activity that takes students in contact with nature is a good opportunity to educate young minds on the importance of environmental stewardship. Nature walks and other similar activities can give students valuable hands-on experiences that deepen students connections to the environment, encouraging them to go beyond mere sustainability talking points.
4) Invite Environmental Experts as Guest Speakers
To further reinforce the importance of environmental and sustainability issues, invite guest speakers or environmental experts to share their knowledge with students. Hearing from professionals in the field provides students with real-world perspectives and insights, making environmental issues more tangible and relatable for students. Importantly, they can also help educators fill in their knowledge gaps, building a stronger foundation for future class discussions on environmental stewardship.
5) Start a School Garden or Green Space
Stamford American’s students occasionally engage in tree planting activities off-campus to teach practical skills while also instilling a sense of pride and ownership in nurturing the environment. These activities can be a good way to provide insights into various environmental topics, regardless of the age of your students.
If tree planting activities aren’t possible in your context, you can still do a world of good for your students by initiating a school garden or green space project inside your campus. Involving students in planting, cultivating, and maintaining a garden is a great way to help them gain new perspectives into the lives of farmers, foresters, arborists, and other people who work close to nature.
6) Implement Waste Reduction Practices
Show students that their impact on the environment is real by actively implementing practices to reduce waste within the school community. Encourage practices like reducing paper usage, promoting the reuse of school materials, and proper recycling to deepen students’ appreciation of the resources available to them.
7) Initiate Sustainability Challenges and Competitions
Organize sustainability challenges or competitions within the school. Whether it’s a waste reduction challenge or a project focused on renewable energy, creating friendly competitions can engage students and inspire innovative solutions. For instance, Stamford American students celebrated Earth Day in 2023 by making bioplastics using everyday ingredients, building a vertical garden, and going on a scavenger hunt to identify different plants found on campus.
8) Incorporate Technology for Environmental Education
The technologies for facilitating environmental education are becoming better and more accessible each year. As such, don’t be remiss in employing relevant educational apps, virtual field trips, and interactive simulations to provide your students with engaging ways to learn about sustainability and environmental conservation.
9) Encourage Student-Led Initiatives
Lastly, the best way to get students involved in sustainability and conservation practices is to give them the power to make much-needed changes themselves. Encourage the formation of student-led clubs or green committees where students come up with their own projects that could later be supported by the school. This approach helps students develop a stronger sense of agency that may see them championing sustainability causes even when they’re off campus.
Stamford American’s Sustainability Commitment: A Model for Change
As stewards of our planet, we must equip young people with the knowledge and values needed to solve the environmental challenges of our time. Stamford American International School’s commitment to sustainability has long been recognized in Singapore and beyond, demonstrating the impact that an educational institution can have on shaping environmentally conscious individuals. Together, we can empower young individuals to develop into well-informed, and responsible protectors of the environment.
