by Grace Hu
In the vibrant sphere of international education, we often celebrate the myriad sustainability initiatives led by passionate students, devoted teachers, and enthusiastic NGOs, and organisations. From climate action campaigns to human rights projects, these activities paint a colourful picture of our schools’ commitment to global issues. However, beneath this enthusiastic surface lies a critical question: Are these initiatives sustainable in the long run, and are they deeply ingrained in the core of our institutions?
The Pitfall of Disconnected Initiatives:
While these initiatives undeniably inspire and educate, they often lack a crucial element for enduring impact: systematic integration into the school’s fabric. Imagine a scenario where a school’s climate action project relies heavily on a single teacher or a dedicated student group. While commendable, if not systematically integrated into the curriculum and the school’s daily operations, these initiatives may wither away when the driving forces move on. The result? The essence of sustainability fades into the background, becoming an activity rather than a guiding principle.
Why Systemic Sustainability Matters:
1. Sustainability Beyond Extracurriculars: When sustainability is systemically embedded, it becomes an intrinsic part of the curriculum. It’s not limited to special projects but seamlessly integrated into subjects. For instance, a science class exploring climate change isn’t just an isolated lesson; it’s part of a comprehensive curriculum where sustainability concepts interlace with various disciplines, fostering a holistic understanding.
2. Community Engagement and Ownership: A systemic approach engages the entire school community. Students, teachers, parents, and administrators collaborate to create an ecosystem where sustainable practices are not just learned but lived. Imagine a school where waste reduction isn’t just an environmental club’s concern but a collective effort involving everyone, from the janitorial staff to the school board.
3. Leadership and Institutional Reputation: An institution known for its systemic sustainability practices attracts not only students but also talented teachers and administrators who share the vision. It becomes a beacon for like-minded individuals, enhancing the overall educational environment.
4. Longevity of Impact: Systemic sustainability ensures that initiatives have a lasting impact. When a school’s operations, governance, and academic curricula align with sustainable principles, the impact continues even as students graduate and new ones enrol.
A Systemic Approach in Action:
Consider a school where sustainability isn’t confined to projects but woven into its very essence. Science classes delve into renewable energy, math lessons explore sustainable consumption patterns, and even the school cafeteria emphasizes locally sourced, organic food. Waste management isn’t just a periodic cleanup drive but a daily practice ingrained in every student’s routine. Such a school doesn’t just produce environmentally aware graduates; it shapes responsible citizens who inherently understand the importance of sustainable living.
Partnering for a Sustainable Future:
At LYIS, we specialize in transforming schools into bastions of sustainable learning. Our tailored approach ensures sustainability isn’t just an activity but an integral part of your institution’s DNA. By collaborating with us, you’re not merely investing in initiatives; you’re investing in a sustainable legacy for your school and its students.
Let’s Embrace Systemic Sustainability:
The time for systemic sustainability is now. It’s not just about individual initiatives; it’s about building a culture where sustainability breathes into every corner of our schools.
Together, let’s pioneer a future where every student graduates not just with knowledge but with a deep-rooted understanding of their role in creating a sustainable world.
Grace Hu is the Global Head of International School Sustainability at Leading Your International School.
To connect with her on LinkedIn, click Here