Written by Rose Scavotto, Going Green Club Teacher Leader and ESS Teacher, and Charo Rodríguez, Director of Communications
In the pursuit of a greener and more sustainable future, educational institutions play a pivotal role in shaping the environmental consciousness of the next generation. As an eco-school, we want to stand as a beacon of environmental stewardship and strive to not only educate students about sustainability but also to embody these principles in our daily operations. One hallmark of such commitment is the development and periodic updating of an eco-code, a statement that encapsulates the school’s dedication to environmental responsibility within the school and drives the sustainability work at BFIS.
The Green Flag Re-Accreditation Process
Three years ago, BFIS received the prestigious Green Flag award, recognizing our efforts to promote environmental awareness and action within the school community. As a part of the re-accreditation process that we are undertaking this spring, we have updated our Eco-Code to reflect the current Eco-Committee’s mission, values, and the current EcoSchools theme that is the focus of our school’s sustainability actions this year.
A Compas for a Greener Future
The eco-code communicates to students, parents, staff, and the wider community that environmental sustainability is not merely an afterthought, but a core principle embedded in the fabric of the institution. This code also serves as a compass, directing efforts to reduce environmental impact, conserve resources, and promote eco-friendly practices. It provides a clear framework for action towards a common purpose and it helps us to prioritize initiatives and measure progress over time. In doing so, it inspires others to join in the collective effort towards a greener future, fostering a sense of pride and ownership among our community members.
Three fundamental pillars
Our eco-code revolves around three fundamental pillars: Education, Wise Choice of Resources, and Sustainability.
Education
At the core of our eco-code lies the commitment to continuous learning and education. We prioritize educating ourselves and each other about environmental issues, sustainable practices, and the critical importance of biodiversity for the health and resilience of ecosystems and the well-being of all living organisms, including humans.
Wise Choice of Resources
Central to our sustainability efforts is the wise and responsible use of resources. We understand that our actions have a direct impact on the environment, and thus, we strive to make informed decisions that minimize waste and maximize efficiency.
Sustainability
Our sustainability ethos focuses on key practices to minimize our environmental footprint. We encourage the BFIS community to make sustainable choices and to think of their impact on the environment as they make decisions throughout their daily lives.
By prioritizing these three areas, we aim to cultivate a school environment where environmental stewardship is not just a goal but a way of life. Through continuous education, responsible resource management, and a commitment to sustainability, we are working towards a brighter, greener future for generations to come.
The development of an eco-code is not a one-time endeavor; it requires periodic review and updating to remain relevant and effective. As the environmental landscape evolves and new challenges emerge, so too must the eco-code adapt to address these issues. By regularly revisiting and revising the eco-code, we demonstrate our commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in pursuit of sustainability at both the local and global scale.
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