When it comes to sustainability in the international education industry, one critical way schools can make a significant impact is by reducing single-use plastics. Here’s our guide to how schools and universities can minimise their plastic footprint and encourage a culture of environmental consciousness.
Before implementing any changes, conduct a thorough audit of single-use plastic consumption in your school. This means identifying the most commonly used items and their alternatives. Having access to this data will help you set goals and measure progress.
Raise awareness among staff and students about the environmental impact of single-use plastics by:
Here are some practical things international schools and universities can do to tackle single-plastic use.
Install multiple water fountains and bottle refill stations to encourage students and staff to bring in reusable water bottles.
Replace disposable cutlery, plates, and cups with reusable alternatives. If reusables aren’t feasible, choose compostable options.
Partner with suppliers to provide plastic-free or minimal-plastic school supplies and encourage the use of refillable pens and pencils.
It’s also important to develop clear policies on plastic use within the school. Consider implementing a ‘bring your own’ culture for lunches and snacks, and reward those who demonstrate exceptional commitment to reducing plastic waste.
Finally, get together with other schools and industry partners, both locally and internationally, to share best practices and challenges. This collaboration can lead to innovative solutions and a broader impact.
Reducing single-use plastics in schools and universities not only protects the environment, but also helps in shaping environmentally conscious global citizens. Try implementing these strategies today to provide your international students with valuable lessons in sustainability.
Written by Stephanie Clark
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