The international education sector is hugely interconnected, bringing with it sustainability challenges that aren’t constrained by borders. Carbon footprints from student travel and resource usage on campuses around the globe are all crucial issues, all of which can be addressed through teamwork. Let’s explore some ideas for collaboration between educational institutions, businesses, and organisations worldwide.

Cross-border cooperation

Partnering up with neighbouring institutions is key for tackling shared environmental problems. For example, joint degree programmes between universities in nearby countries or regions allow students to gain an understanding of sustainable practices and research projects focused on eco issues. Students can work with partner universities or colleges to develop solutions to local challenges, including water shortages, deforestation, and air pollution.

Academic partnerships

Sustainable progress can be greatly increased when educational institutions team up with companies. Collaborations between universities and tech firms, for instance, work to shrink the environmental footprint of campuses through energy-efficient buildings, renewable power sources, and green infrastructure. Combining industry know-how with academic research and development leads to implementing realistic, eco-friendly upgrades that benefit educational facilities globally.

Global initiatives

Big initiatives get everyone involved, so international organisations are encouraging educational establishments worldwide to include sustainable development in their curricula, research, and overall operations. By adopting this method, universities and schools can swap sustainability best practices, team up on green projects, and collectively work towards eco-friendly goals.

If we want the international education industry to really go green, we need collaborative efforts crossing borders and involving all key players – schools, universities, agencies, and partner organisations. Encouraging cross-border cooperation, building academic partnerships, and supporting global sustainability initiatives paves the way for an eco-friendly future for international education. Find out more about how your educational establishment can go green by following Schools & Agents’ Sustainable Wednesday series!

Written by Stephanie Clark