How To Cultivate Environmental Awareness In Schools

Kids nowadays are quite inquisitive and always ready with a “why” or “how” when being taught something new. It is in the first few years of a person’s life that we learn new concepts quickly. Children can speak a new language easier and more naturally than an adult.  A child’s brain is like a sponge. It soaks up all the information it receives. Schools have a responsibility towards future leaders - not just teaching them how to read and write, but also educating them about environmental awareness.

Here are a few ideas on how to cultivate environmental awareness in schools.

What is environmental awareness?



Environmental Awareness is about being aware of the environment. This refers to all flowers and animals and includes all marine and wildlife. The planet is currently facing an increasing number of environmental challenges, which include climate change, global warming, droughts, water scarcity, floods, and pollution.
Children, as early as possible, should be aware of the environmental issues we’re facing.





How can schools teach environmental awareness?
Schools must lead the conversation. environmental awareness should be a part of the curriculum in all schools. This will encourage young people to engage in their environment to protect it and can help communities become more environmentally aware.


Some practical tips schools can adopt: 

•  Introduce the 3 R’s: reduce waste, reuse resources, and recycle materials
•  Organise tree planting days at school and tell them why trees are important to the environment
•  Encourage children to switch off all appliances and lights when not in use
• Ensure taps are closed properly after you have used them and use water sparingly

How can teachers lead by example?
Most people remember things that people did more than what they said. Teaching children what it means to be environmentally aware is important but it will have a more lasting impact if teachers can lead by example.

• For teachers, when you see litter, pick it up even if it’s not yours. Those little eyes might be watching you.
• Start a recycling system in your classroom and show the children how to use it and recycle their things.

How can schools help spread the word?
Schools should encourage parents to share their environmental knowledge to their kids at home. It would be a good idea to let the children practice at home doing small tasks like picking up their trash and throwing the garbage, or teaching them to turn off the faucet when they’re brushing their teeth or washing their hands with soap and not let water run down, or shut off the lights when they’re done using them. This will help them be more knowledgeable about environmental issues.


About the Author

Sharjeel Ahmed from Edarabia.com has served the education industry for over 6 years. He collaborates and works alongside education-marketing agencies, event organizers, and educational Institutions ranging from nurseries, schools, and universities to develop and execute their marketing strategies. He is extremely passionate about education technology and also writes for various local and international publications. A graduate with High Distinction from the Manipal University Dubai, UAE, Sharjeel holds a Bachelor’s Degree with major in Media & Communication.