Stumbled across the term eco schools? Wondering how you can become one? Then you’re in the right place. However, it goes beyond simply turning off lights and keeping the heating off. One solution that you might not have thought of is the investment in a canopy.
Here at A&S Landscape, we’re passionate about the design and installation of canopies for schools. And, in this blog, we’ll showcase the incredible sustainable benefits that our canopies can have, as well as provide some eco ideas for schools.
Ready to lean towards a greener future? Let’s get into it…
How does a canopy add to sustainability in schools?
First and foremost, one of the best solutions to tackling sustainability in schools is by investing in a solar canopy. More than just acting as shelter from the elements, a solar canopy is a strategic addition to doing your bit for the planet. Providing both physical and educational elements, you can reduce your carbon footprint and adopt a more eco-friendly learning environment!
Here are some more great benefits:
- Promote energy efficiency – By providing shade over classroom windows and outdoor learning areas, you can reduce the need for air conditioning during warmer months, leading to lower electricity bills. A lot of our solar canopies also come with the addition of enclosed sides, which trap in heat during winter and can save you from putting the heating on.
- Encourage outdoor learning – Having a canopy in your school, whether that’s solar or not, offers a sheltered all-weather space that pupils can use. There are plenty of benefits of outdoor learning, and you can influence hands-on activities like nature observation, gardening, and learning about the weather cycle.
- Made from strong materials, which means great longevity – Here at A&S Landscape, our solar canopies are made from durable, long-lasting materials such as steel and polycarbonate, which have low environmental impact over their lifespan. This means they don’t need to be replaced frequently, which means you get more out of your investment and a canopy that lasts you a lifetime!
Interested in finding out more? Then have a read of our blog: 4 Ways to Save Energy in Schools With a Solar Canopy.
How to make schools more eco friendly
While the role of a solar canopy is important, there are some other ideas you can adopt to transform into an eco school, without having to make a big investment. Let’s have a look at them in a bit more detail…
Create a school garden
Want to encourage your pupils to spend even more time outdoors? Then a school garden is the way forward! It can help to teach students about where food comes from, promote biodiversity, and encourage love for the outdoors and nature. It can be something as simple as a few raised beds, or if you’re feeling adventurous (and have the budget), you could invest in a full-scale vegetable patch.
Students can get involved in planting, watering, and harvesting, taking away valuable life skills that they may not learn in the classroom. Don’t forget about the addition of one of our canopies, which can cover tools and equipment or keep your garden out of harm’s way in extreme weather. For further tips, have a read of our blog: Setting Up a School Garden: The Complete Guide.
Our experts recommend: A stunning shade sail.
Recycle as much as possible
Another vital step that eco schools take is that they make a concerted effort to recycle as much as possible. You can do this by setting up accessible and clearly marked recycling bins to help students and staff sort their waste correctly. By introducing a culture of recycling, you won’t only reduce your environmental impact, but also instil values in pupils that will stay with them for life.
It’s a great and easy way to demonstrate your commitment to becoming an eco school. And, it of course significantly decreases the amount sent to landfills.
Be energy efficient
There’s no denying the fact that schools rely on lights, heaters, and screens to function properly. However, good energy efficiency is pivotal in becoming more sustainable. We’ve talked about the benefits of adding a solar canopy, but if you don’t have the budget for this, there are some easier ways that you can be more energy efficient. Simple actions such as the following can all significantly reduce your energy consumption:
- Turning off lights in unoccupied rooms
- Installing smart lights with sensors
- Shutting down computers at the end of the day
- Keeping doors closed during the winter to prevent heat loss
Going to these measures goes beyond just reducing money; they are vital in helping reduce your school’s carbon footprint and promoting an atmosphere of conservation and responsibility among the next generation.
Encourage walking to school
Another easy and effective way to increase sustainability in schools is to encourage a walk to school scheme. This could include things such as encouraging a walking group or setting up an eco-council to promote walking or cycling to school. This can inspire collaboration among pupils and give them something to strive towards. Some schemes, such as the Young Green Briton Challenge, offer great opportunities for pupils in schools and are a great way to implement sustainability and climate education into your curriculum.
What do our experts say?
Still not convinced by a solar canopy? Then you might want to hear from someone who understands the importance of one.
“A solar canopy is a game changer for your school’s sustainability goals. At A&S Landscape, our solar canopies are designed to provide incredible shelter and significant energy generation. And, beyond your environmental and financial savings, they can actually be a great teaching tool! Teachers can integrate this into the current curriculum and empower pupils to become more environmentally conscious. That’s a win-win in our eyes!” – Stefanie Lomas, canopy expert.
Be sure to have a read of our case studies to see some of our solar canopies in action.
Invest in quality with A&S Landscape
Hopefully, this blog has taught you a bit more about eco schools, and how you can make active changes to be one! One thing you shouldn’t undermine is a canopy… They’re a strategic investment in the future of your school and a powerful way to embrace sustainability. By choosing to install one, you’re not just adding a shelter. You’re adding a foundation for a greener, more sustainable learning environment.
At A&S Landscape, we’re experts in our field. And, we can create bespoke canopies for a variety of sectors. Ready to find the perfect solution? Get in touch with our team today!
