Climate Change\|Climate Change Primary

Schools

Schools are responsible for 15% of public sector greenhouse gas emissions and up to 50% of emissions from local authorities.

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As a result of climate change legislation introduced at UK level, local authorities are now required to reduce emissions across their estates and accordingly many are now ensuring that all new-build schools meet appropriate standards relating to energy efficiency and use of renewable technologies.

However, the most important factor in determining how energy efficient a school is has more to do with the attitude and behaviour of those who use the buildings. This underlines the importance of ensuring that learning about climate change is firmly embedded within Curriculum for Excellence and is woven into the values, fabric and life of the school. Tackling climate change and taking positive action to reduce energy usage and waste also provides excellent opportunities for pupils to show initiative, take responsibility and develop skills, attitudes and behaviours relating to sustainability and global citizenship.

Reflective questions

  • How can we enable learners to understand, respect and care for the rights, responsibilities, values and opinions of others in Scotland and the wider world?
  • How can we engage learners in democratic processes and encourage them to participate in critical thinking and decision making in schools and communities at local, national and international level?

Related links

  • Schools Global Footprint
    The schools global footprint calculator helps you measure your footprint in six key areas.
  • Generation Green
    provides free curriculum-compliant teaching resources.
  • Eco-Schools Scotland

    Eco-Schools is an international initiative designed to encourage whole-school action for the environment.

  • John Muir Award

    Environmental award scheme encouraging people to be responsible for the natural environment.

  • Forest Schools

    Schools section of the Forest Education Initiative website.

  • Things to do

    Pages of the RSPB website with information about getting involved in helping to protect the environment.