Continuing our sustainability journey for international education providers, this second installment focuses on water conservation, strategic partnerships, and creating lasting environmental awareness among your global student community. These initiatives not only reduce your institution’s environmental footprint, but also prepare students to become sustainability advocates in their home countries.

Adopt water conservation strategies

Water usage varies dramatically across cultures, making conservation education particularly valuable for international students. Installing water-saving taps and toilets in schools and accommodation facilities can provide immediate environmental benefits. Complement these upgrades with water stations throughout your campus, encouraging students to bring along reusable bottles to reduce the need for plastic. During orientation programmes, educate students about your school’s water-saving habits to help students adapt while building environmental consciousness.

Build local sustainable partnerships 

Your institution’s environmental impact extends beyond just the campus boundaries. Sourcing locally for food reduces transportation emissions while exposing students to regional cuisine in school canteens. When selecting suppliers—be it for food or even classroom equipment—prioritise those following eco-friendly practices committed to sustainability across catering, paper, and cleaning products. These partnerships demonstrate institutional values while often providing cost savings.

Engage your students and staff

Transform sustainability from policy into culture through student engagement. Encourage repurposing of classroom materials and try to eliminate single-use plastics by offering branded reusable water bottles and travel mugs—this creates both environmental benefits and school pride. Use digital signage in student areas to share sustainability tips, rotating content in multiple languages to ensure inclusivity.

By including sustainability throughout the international education experience, schools and universities can help students become environmental advocates who carry these practices worldwide, multiplying positive impact far beyond campus boundaries. Missed Part 1 of this Sustainable Wednesday series? Catch up here on digital operations, waste management, and energy efficiency strategies for international education.

Written by Stephanie Clark