climbing plants, vegetables, fruits, flowers, food plants (e.g. for insects or birds), plants with a habitat function (e.g. for insects or birds)
Who takes care of the green elements?
students, teachers, green team, facility manager
We povide our Green lab with food plants, especially for insects as well as for birds. We also use helper plants for our vegetable plants. We learnt about permaculture in the last project. Therefor we are eager to achieve a natural garden with our students. The greening elements of our initiative at Praxisvolksschule der Pädagogischen Hochschule Steiermark include several sustainable practices and thoughtful selections. We prioritize the use of environmentally friendly materials in all aspects of our projects, ensuring that our learning spaces and outdoor areas contribute positively to the environment. For example, in the Green Lab, we carefully select plants that are both native and drought-resistant, promoting biodiversity and minimizing water usage. In addition, our approach to greening includes using recycled or sustainable building materials for outdoor structures and garden beds. Organic composting methods are applied to reduce waste and nourish the soil, and rainwater collection systems are in place to support irrigation. These elements are designed to create a hands-on learning environment where students can actively participate in and understand the impact of sustainable practices on both a small and large scale.
Are there any activities associated with this green initiative?
gardening with students, during (selceted) teaching subjects, workshops, workshops with experts, project days/week, green students – teams, cooperation with other educational institutions, cooperation with (local) organisations
We are very interested to gain some information on the topic gardening through experts and science studies. Therfor we take part in various projects of local and educational experts, like Umweltbildungszentrum Steiermark, WeltWeitWandernWirkt oder ÖBV #klassezwanzigzukunft or we work with our collegues from Pädagogische Hochschule together. The latest achievment was a best practice example of gardening for a permacultural garden in Graz.
weekly
some classes, special student teams, some teachers
What is/was the motivation for the project?
Our school has a strong tradition of networking and has built valuable collaborative partnerships over the years. We are committed to taking bold, transformative actions urgently needed to guide the world onto a sustainable and resilient path. Our goal is to protect the planet from degradation by promoting sustainable consumption and production, responsibly managing natural resources, and taking immediate action against climate change, ensuring that the needs of both present and future generations are met. In our Green Lab, a small but impactful learning environment, students explore how to protect the planet, embrace sustainability, and collaborate as a team. A recent highlight was their active participation in the «Klimaaktionstag» for Fridays for Future, demonstrating their dedication to environmental causes. We are proud of their commitment to the planet and strive to amplify their voices, encouraging mindful participation in public discourse.
How is/was the project financed?
Many projects were sponsored by Bildungsförderungsfonds of Forum Umweltbildung (project of the government). We took part in a few competitions (ÖBV – #klassezwanzigzukunft).
What are the (planned) results?
The Praxisvolksschule der Pädagogischen Hochschule Steiermark is dedicated to fostering an environmentally friendly school culture, as demonstrated by its participation in the Austrian Eco-label initiative. The school actively promotes sustainable practices and environmental education. Students engage in projects focusing on reducing waste, conserving resources, and protecting biodiversity. In the Green Lab, an innovative outdoor classroom, students work hands-on to address ecological challenges, plant seeds, and harvest food. This unique space allows them to directly interact with nature, fostering practical skills and a deeper understanding of sustainability, which supports the school’s mission to instill environmentally conscious habits in its students.
How comprehensively were the ideas, desires, and demands of the students integrated into the initiative?
The ideas, desires, and demands of the students were integrated comprehensively into the initiative. We actively encourage student participation by providing platforms for them to voice their concerns and contribute ideas, especially within the framework of our Green Lab and environmental projects. Students are involved in decision-making processes related to sustainability actions, such as waste reduction, resource management, and participation in events like «Klimaaktionstag» for Fridays for Future. Their engagement is central to shaping the initiative, ensuring it reflects their aspirations for a sustainable future while fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Does your initiative present itself to the public in any way?
yes
How or on which channels does the project present itself to the public?
