Title of the program: Call for inclusion of educational institutions in the international Eco -Schools program

Donor/institution that issued the call: Ambassadors of Sustainable Development and the Environment 

Topic (objectives/priorities of the program):  Eco – Schools are a democratic, participatory program that provides an excellent opportunity for students to experience an active role in their school. Both the school and the wider community benefit from it through:

Improved school environment – Students and school staff can work together on issues such as waste reduction and school work in an environmentally friendly way.  The participation of the local community – local authorities, organizations and businesses with expertise in many areas of environmental management may be willing to cooperate with the Eco – school initiatives. The result is a better connected community. 

Increasing environmental awareness – students (as well as teachers and other staff) are encouraged to use their new ecological knowledge in everyday school life. This helps students to understand the importance of what they learn in the classroom. 

Greater role of students – students are, through a democratic process, encouraged to take control of their own environment, by means of learning and making decisions about how to improve their homes and their school environment. 

Financial savings – Activities taken through the program can lead to savings, for instance, in the school accounts for electricity and water. Waste reduction and collection of materials for recycling can help to raise the money for school.

International connections – Schools may connect with other eco – schools in the country or abroad. These connections not only provide the opportunity for schools to share information about the environment, but they can also be used as a means for cultural exchange and improvement of language skills. 

Applicants: Schools and Faculties in the territory of the Republic of Serbia

Application deadline: September 1, 2014, for the 2014/15 school year

Internet address/E -mail: http://ambassadors-env.com/

Source: Ambassadors of Sustainable Development and the Environment