For the past year, Schools & Agents have partnered with Green Standard Schools (GSS) — a non-profit organisation that’s reshaping environmental responsibility in language education. In our ongoing commitment to promote sustainability in international education, we’re dedicating this week’s article to introducing this remarkable organisation and explaining why this partnership matters for our industry.

More about Green Standard Schools

GSS is a non-profit association founded with a clear mission: to promote environmental sustainability in language teaching institutions worldwide. They recognise that while the world faces unprecedented environmental challenges, education — particularly language education — can be a powerful catalyst for change.

How schools can play a part in protecting the environment 

With their international reach and diverse student body, language schools can serve as influential platforms for encouraging sustainability. GSS believe that by integrating environmental consciousness into language education, we can create ripple effects that extend far beyond the classroom.

GSS’ core values and goals 

For schools that want to become GSS members, the organisation has developed a framework known as ‘The 12 Commitments’. These commitments cover crucial areas to guide schools toward sustainable operations, such as reducing water, energy and paper consumption, eliminating plastic waste, integrating environmental studies into the curriculum, and more.

Schools & Agents’ partnership with GSS

Our partnership with GSS aligns perfectly with our vision for a more sustainable international education sector. By collaborating with GSS, we can help schools access valuable resources and guidance for environmental initiatives, connect with a network of environmentally conscious institutions, and gain recognition for their sustainability efforts

Through our weekly Sustainable Wednesday series, we’ll continue to share insights, success stories, and practical advice from GSS. For schools interested in learning more about GSS accreditation or accessing their resources, visit their website or contact us for more information.

Written by Stephanie Clark