Winning initiatives – 2025/26
We are excited to present the winning initiatives 2025/26 to you! These initiatives showcase the creativity, dedication, and vision of schools working toward a greener future. Let these projects inspire you to bring more green innovation to your school!
Transforming a Gravel Area into a Biodiversity-Friendly Green Space
School: HLW FSB Weiz
Location: Austria, Weiz
Project Overview
This project transforms an underused gravel area in the school garden into a vibrant biodiversity space. The garden previously consisted mainly of lawn and gravel surfaces with limited ecological value. Students therefore initiated the idea to redesign the space and create small habitats that actively support insects and native plants.
What will be created
Students designed several small ecological micro-habitats, including:
- sand areas for ground-nesting wild bees
- deadwood and branch piles for insects
- stone structures that provide shelter
- small unmown meadow sections for pollinators
In addition, the gravel area will be converted into a wildflower-rich green space using native seeds and site-appropriate plants.
Learning experience
The project combines hands-on environmental action with scientific observation. Students participate in planning, implementation and long-term care of the area. By observing insects and ecological changes over time, the garden becomes a living outdoor laboratory.
Impact
- increased biodiversity on the school grounds
- improved microclimate and ecological value
- long-term outdoor learning space maintained by students
Green Classroom
School: Friedrich-Wilhelm-Gymnasium
Location: Germany, Cologne
Project overview
The Green Classroom creates an outdoor learning space where lessons can take place directly in nature. Instead of learning exclusively indoors, students and teachers can use a specially designed green area on the school grounds for teaching, discussion and creative work.
What was created
The project established a natural learning environment with seating areas surrounded by plants and shaded spaces. This outdoor classroom provides a calm and inspiring atmosphere that supports concentration and creativity.
Learning experience
The Green Classroom is used across different subjects and encourages interdisciplinary learning. Students experience environmental topics directly in nature and can connect theoretical knowledge with practical observation.
Impact
- greener and more attractive school environment
- improved microclimate and natural shading
- new opportunities for outdoor learning
Cervantes Butterfly Oasis
School: CEIP MIGUEL DE CERVANTES
Location: Spain, Collado Villalba
Project Overview
The Cervantes Butterfly Oasis is a student-led initiative to create a safe habitat for butterflies and other pollinators. A section of the school grounds was transformed into a colourful garden filled with nectar-rich plants.
What was created
Students planted native flowering species that provide food and shelter for butterflies and other insects throughout the year. The diverse planting design supports local biodiversity and creates a visually attractive green space.
Learning experience
Students were involved in the entire process, from planning the garden layout to planting and monitoring insect activity. Through this work they gained a deeper understanding of ecosystems, pollination and biodiversity.
Impact
- outdoor learning and observation space
- improved habitat for butterflies and pollinators
- stronger environmental awareness among students