Schools Global Footprint Resource Re-fresh and Re-launch by Education Scotland

Tuesday, 18 October 2011, 2:02 PM

The Schools Global Footprint Resource, which allows schools to measure and then take action to reduce their GHG and ecological footprint, has been refreshed and is now live on the Education Scotland website.

The Schools Global Footprint resource was originally developed by Eco-Schools Scotland and SSN (both programmes of Keep Scotland Beautiful) in partnership with WWF Scotland and the Stockholm Environment Institute at York University. The initiative has been supported by the Scottish Government since 2003.

The resource comprises:

• a footprint calculator which allows learners to measure the ecological and GHG footprint of their school in relation to six topic areas: food, water, energy, buildings, transport and waste;
• a downloadable teachers workbook with curriculum links and support;
• a package of 5 short training videos;
• a range of practical case studies, and;
• a Glow page.

These resources have now been mainstreamed within Education Scotland and their bank of educational resources for Scottish schools, and have additionally refreshed the footprint calculator to create a new look tool with increased accessibility and ease of use.

The school estate is responsible for an estimated 50% of greenhouse gas emissions from local authorities.

The Schools Global Footprint package provides schools with the resources and support to readily embed footprinting into their curriculum and is free to use.

Learners are encouraged to develop innovative approaches to reducing their impact on the environment and promoting sustainable lifestyles in the wider community – from tackling the school run to growing and eating their own produce to reduce food miles.

The materials have been developed for learners at second and third levels (P6 –S3) but can be adapted for older or younger students.

Access the Schools Global Footprint Calculator
Access the teacher’s handbook
Access a series of Schools Global Footprintintroductory videos.