Environmental Sustainability in Out-of-School Settings
At this year’s Club Central conference, in addition to financial and social sustainability, we are placing a spotlight on environmental sustainability. We'll explore what measures can be taken within settings, from teaching children to implementing planet-friendly practices day-to-day and within our business practices.
Teaching Children Now and for the Future
Educating children about environmental sustainability is crucial for the planet’s wellbeing and their future. By integrating sustainability into the curriculum, we can instil eco-conscious habits that children will carry throughout their lives. Here are some effective strategies:
Nature-Based Learning
Incorporate outdoor activities that connect children with nature, such as gardening, nature walks, and wildlife observation. These activities will help children gain appreciation for the environment.
Eco-Friendly Crafts
Use recycled materials for art projects and junk modelling to teach children about reusing and recycling. This not only sparks creativity but also reduces the use for new materials and highlights the importance of reducing waste.
Discussion and Sharing Books and Stories
Share stories and discussions about the environment, conservation, and what steps can be taken to reduce our impact.
Sustainable Practices within the Setting
Implementing sustainable practices within the setting sets a good example to the children, helps reduce the environmental footprint of what happens and saves money. Here are some key practices:
Purchasing: Opt for eco-friendly and sustainable products. Choose suppliers that prioritise environmental responsibility and avoid single-use plastics.
Recycling: Establish comprehensive recycling systems within the setting. Ensure that bins are clearly labelled, and children are taught how to use them correctly.
Reusing: Encourage the reuse of materials whenever possible. For example, use reusable containers for snacks and meals and repurpose old toys and furniture.
Reducing Waste: Implement waste reduction strategies such as composting food scraps and using digital communications instead of paper.
Business Leaders Making Good Choices
As Childcare Business Leaders there are measures you can take which can further support environmental sustainability, such as making conscientious choices regarding service providers and resources used.
Phone and Internet Providers: Choose phone and internet providers that prioritise sustainability and have a commitment to reducing their carbon footprint. Many companies now offer eco-friendly options.
Also buying refurbished phones instead of new, BackMarket is a good place to look.
Banking: Review your current bank and consider changing to a bank that invests in green projects and has clear environmental policies. This supports the broader financial ecosystem in fostering sustainability.
Energy Providers: Opt for energy providers that supply renewable energy. This can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of your operations.
Printing: Consider what needs to be printed and whether procedures within the club can be online as opposed to paper versions.
Strategies for a Sustainable Childcare Setting
Energy Efficiency: Invest in energy-efficient appliances and lighting. Changing to LED bulbs can make a big difference.
Water Conservation: Implement water-saving measures such as low-flow toilets and teach children the importance of not wasting water, like turning off taps when washing hands.
Green Cleaning Products: Use non-toxic, biodegradable cleaning products to ensure a healthy environment for children and reduce harmful chemical emissions.
Staff Training: Train staff on sustainability practices and encourage them to incorporate these practices into their daily routines and teaching.
Consider B Corp Certification:
B Corp Certification Process is a powerful way to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. B Corps are businesses that meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose. For out-of-school settings, becoming a B Corp would mean integrating sustainability into the core of your business operations and being recognised for these efforts. B Corp certification emphasises not just environmental sustainability but also social responsibility. This means fostering a supportive community, fair treatment of staff, and positive contributions to society.
It’s for the Future
Environmental sustainability in childcare settings is not just about reducing our carbon footprint; it's about teaching the next generation to value and protect their world. By integrating these practices and principles, we can create environments that promote a sustainable future for our children and the planet.
Join us at the Club Central Conference to delve deeper into this theme with leading experts and develop actionable strategies for creating eco-friendly childcare settings. Together, we can make a lasting positive impact on our communities and the environment.
