Description
In an age where climate change and environmental destruction are pressing concerns, the importance of adopting sustainable practices cannot be overlooked.
The education sector, being a cornerstone of society, holds significant potential to drive this change. By introducing eco-conscious values and actions within our classrooms, we not only conserve resources but also instill these essential life principles in our young generation.
This course is tailored for teachers and institutions aiming to foster an eco-friendly and more sustainable environment in their classrooms and organizations.
Delving deep into examining their current lifestyles, pinpointing areas for improvement, and introducing alternative, eco-friendly trades, participants will be guided on how to adopt greener practices within educational settings and inspire students, colleagues, and the larger school community to do the same.
As teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the minds of the future, understanding and implementing sustainable living practices becomes paramount.
Not only does this course emphasize individual growth, but it also focuses on the broader perspective of sustainable development in educational settings.
By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to reduce energy, water, and paper consumption in their classrooms, through a blend of theory and practical sessions, all while ensuring they set the right examples for their students.
The ultimate goal is to create eco-conscious classrooms where both teachers and students are active participants in safeguarding our planet.
What is included
Learning outcomes
The course will help participants to:
- Gain a thorough understanding of sustainable living practices and their relevance in educational settings;
- Identify and avoid “greenwashing” tactics;
- Master the art of composting for schools and personal use;
- Acquire skills to reduce waste, aiming for a zero-waste classroom environment;
- Learn about the environmental impact of common products and how to choose or create eco-friendly alternatives;
- Develop strategies to reduce water, paper, and energy consumption in classrooms;
- Understand the implications of microplastics and devise educational strategies to address the issue.
Tentative schedule
Day 1 – Introduction to greenwashing
- Analyse participants’ lifestyle habits and identify areas for improvement;
- Introduction to “greenwashing” and strategies to recognize and avoid it.
Day 2 – Composting and environmental education
- Comprehensive guide to composting: benefits, dos, don’ts, and its application in schools;
- Outdoor lesson (weather permitting) showcasing environmental education outside the traditional classroom setting. Exploration of the unique geology of the Troodos mountains area.
Day 3 – Waste reduction principles
- Waste reduction strategies for classrooms and personal use;
- Delve into the environmental impacts of household products, focusing on detergents;
- Hands-on session: Making eco-friendly soap.
Day 4 – Strategies and action plans for schools and organization
- Group activities to strategize reducing water, paper, and energy consumption in classrooms;
- Designing action plans for schools to manage waste, energy, water, and paper.
Day 5 – Introduction to microplastics
- Discussion about microplastics: understanding, implications, and educational strategies;
- Lesson planning for teaching about microplastics;
- Field trip to “Ammos tou Kambouri” beach and the nearby sculpture park for a blend of environmental education and history.
Day 6 – Course closure and cultural activities
- Course evaluation: round-up of acquired competencies, feedback, and discussion;
- Awarding of the course Certificate of Attendance;
- Excursion and other external cultural activities.
