How To Cultivate Environmental Awareness In School

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.

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.

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.