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Climate change and sustainability: inspiring eco-friendly operational management

Last updated on 21 July 2023

Introduction

There are a number of operational leadership areas in schools where by adopting pro-environmental positions and policies when setting working practices and procuring goods and services, carbon emissions and environmental impact can be reduced.

This section provides model policies, templates and links that will enable leaders to adopt a more pro-environmental position. In time, we will be sharing examples of pro-environmental operational management from schools across Hertfordshire.

3 actions you can take now:

  1. Adopt a green procurement strategy. We are developing a model policy for use in schools.
  2. Meet with your catering provider about minimising the use of single-use plastics and reducing food waste.
  3. Utilise digital platforms to harness interactive technologies in the classroom and to set and receive homework, reducing the amount of printing in school.

Resources to inspire

Below you will find a selection of resources to inspire your next steps related to each of the suggested actions.

Other useful resources

HFL Education

How green is your school podcast? Kate Mouncey, Associate Assistant Head Teacher & Director of Sixth Form at Sandringham School. This episode talks about the work Kate is doing on environmental sustainability and provides tips and advice for schools who are looking to go green (listen on on Spotify or Apple podcast)

Department for Education

The Department for Education has developed guidance, Top tips for Sustainability in Schools, which provides practical ways for schools to become more sustainable. The publication covers carbon reduction, energy and water use, sustainable purchasing, travel, waste reduction, and catering and includes teaching resources.

DfE: Top tips for sustainability in schools

Let’s Go Zero

Let’s Go Zero campaign supports UK schools to be zero carbon by 2030. They provide schools with sustainability advice, such as energy use, car-free school runs and plant-based canteens.

https://letsgozero.org/

Recycling Bins

Did you know that 75% of the aluminium ever made is still in production?

An aluminium can put in the recycling can be back on the shelf in 60 days!

Recycling Bins: Recycling facts

Do you know how much waste is left behind?

Share your successes, or ask us for resources

We are keen to hear from schools on the actions they are taking to reduce climate change. Contact us at climateactionschools@hertfordshire.gov.uk to share your success stories. The most inspiring will feature in our planned digital publication “Inspiring Stories to Reduce Climate Change in Schools”.

If you require further model policies, templates or support get in touch at: climateactionschools@hertfordshire.gov.uk. We of course can’t promise to always provide but are keen to support schools wherever possible.

Last updated on 21 July 2023