Eco Schools Scotland

Most young people care deeply about environmental issues. They want to help, but knowing what to do is not always easy. Eco Schools could be the answer.

A large number of Scottish schools are registered and a significant number have already achieved Green Flag status.

What are Eco Schools?

The Eco Schools programme is an international initiative designed to encourage whole school action for the environment. It is a recognised award scheme that accredits schools that make a commitment to continuously improve their environmental performance. 

It is also a learning resource that raises awareness of environmental and sustainable development issues throughout activities linked to curriculum subjects and areas.

The aim of the Eco Schools programme is to make environmental awareness and action an intrinsic part of the life and ethos of the school for both pupils and for staff and to engage the wider community. The Eco Schools programme can help schools to:

• improve the school environment
• reduce litter and waste
• reduce energy and water use
• devise efficient ways of travelling to and from school
• promote healthy lifestyles
• encourage active citizenship
• build strong partnerships with a variety of community groups
• develop international and global links.   

What's in it for schools?

Recognition and publicity

The Eco Schools programme leads to the prestigious international environmental award, the Green Flag. It shows that your school is committed to the highest standards in environmental education and management - something to celebrate and be proud of.

Money and savings

The programme provides guidance on saving energy, reducing waste and implementing recycling schemes, all of which can add up to direct and long-term savings for your school.

Links to the curriculum

Managing your school's environmental performance requires knowledge and skills that relate directly to Scottish curriculum requirements for ages 3-18. The programme provides numerous opportunities to link the Eco Schools process and activities to a wide range of curriculum subjects and areas.

How does it work?

The Eco Schools process is straightforward. Schools that register and implement the programme are entitled to apply for an award.

Once registered you receive free copies of the Scottish Eco Schools handbook and introductory video. The video features eight schools in Scotland that are engaged in the programme, while the handbook contains guidelines to implement the programme, a range of curriculum-linked activities, background environmental information and useful contact details.

Registered schools also receive an e-mail newsletter each term.

There are three levels that map your achievement against the criteria in the handbook - the bronze award, the silver award and the prestigious Green Flag, which will 'fly' in your school grounds! Eco Schools is a process of continuous improvement so to maintain your Eco Schools status you need to renew the award every two years.

Once your school has acheived an Eco Schools award at bronze, silver or Green Flag level, it is entitled to apply for a one-off Scottish Government grant of £250.

Find out more about Eco Schools Scotland

Visit the Eco Schools Scotland website for more information on the programme. You can find out how to apply for an award, get information on events, training and the latest news from the Eco Schools team. There are also useful links to curriculum subjects as well as national and international Eco Schools sites.

Contact Eco Schools Scotland to register your school and receive the free introductory video and handbook.

Examples of good practice in Scottish schools

For inspiring case studies of schools and nurseries who have tackled litter, organised car-free days and set up recycling schemes visit our Sustainable Development Education site.

Contact details

E-mail: ecoschools@ksbscotland.org.uk

Eco Schools
c/o Keep Scotland Beautiful 
Islay House 
Livilands Lane 
Stirling, FK8 2BG 
tel: 01786 468 234/471 333
fax: 01786 464 611 

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