Environmental schools, also known as eco schools and green schools, are academic institutions who have taken the initiative to educate students on the impact of human activities to the environment. They take both theoretical and practical approach to providing complete “green education” to young learners.

Environmental education is now more significant and relevant than ever because of a number of reasons. Here are three of them.

Spreading awareness

Let’s face the fact: only a few people understand why we need to take action to protect the environment before it’s too late. Environmental schools endeavor to spread this awareness so that more people can join the movement. They teach students and communities about the environmental problems we are facing and more importantly, the sustainable solutions to these problems.

Promoting sustainability

Part of an eco school’s larger mission is to create a future where the people’s needs are sufficiently supplied by the planet. To achieve that goal, they teach people to become aware of greener sources, responsible practices, and smart use of technology to conserve what must be conserved and to protect what must be protected. They explore ways to put a stop to irresponsible use and exploitation of natural resources before we run out of them.

Encouraging innovation

Exploring ways to preserve the natural environment also means encouraging minds to create new methods, improve existing practices, and innovate. Environmental schools encourage their students to not only understand what’s happening, but also to take part in creating solutions to these problems. They allow them to use their imagination, artistic skills, and critical thinking to improve old policies and methods and create new green products and techniques.

These are the reasons environmentally friendly schools deserve recognition and support. When they receive support from the government, community, and relevant organizations, more schools will be inspired to pay attention to green and sustainable education. As a result, more people will take an action to create more positive impact to the environment.