Winning initiatives – 2024
We are excited to present the winning initiatives 2024 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!
Schools, rise up with trees!
School: Aachener Gesamtschule
Location: Germany, Aachen
Already during the “Global Goals March of Aachen Schools” in 2024, the students of the 4th Ac GE demanded, among other things, more greenery for schools! Since the City of Aachen is generally open to this idea (as seen in the 2030 Climate City Agreement), but financial resources are limited, our school is building the necessary support through both regional and national networks. This includes collaboration with universities, parents, local businesses, foundations, sponsors, and other partner organisations.
Step by step, changes are already happening. This school year, several projects have been implemented, such as the planting of a mobile tree on wheels (“Wanderbaum”), which can be moved flexibly across the school grounds. In addition, raised beds have been repaired, potted plants have been rescued, and most importantly, a “Greening Council” was established. This council allows all members of the school community to contribute ideas, especially the students, so they can actively shape the design of their schoolyard.
We have already developed a teaching format and are working on open project concepts in which “podcast professionals” and “climate reporters” are trained—because “Good stories need to be told!”
In the future, the schoolyard will continue to be transformed with sustainable elements. Planned projects include façade greening, hedges, trees, seating areas, green terraces, possibly an outdoor classroom, and a drinking fountain. In parallel, the school intends to utilise teaching materials from Green Cool Schools, which is still in the conceptual stage. However, as a Global Goals school, there is already significant internal support for this initiative.
In the medium term, the plan is to share knowledge and connections with other schools (symbolised by the “Wanderbaum”)—in other words, “Copying is encouraged!”
A beautiful outcome of the greening project has already occurred. The local city services approached us, asking: “Aren’t you the school that does greening projects? We want our trainees to carry out a de-sealing project. Could that happen at your school?”
In summary, both internally and within the regional community, the “Schools, Rise Up with Trees!” initiative is gaining real momentum. Isn’t that wonderful?
Mobile plant troughs for indoor use
School: PMS PH Kärnten
Location: Austria, Klagenfurt
After successfully creating a green courtyard, the school community wanted to bring the benefits of nature inside the building. The goal was to improve the learning atmosphere by integrating plants into daily school life. With this in mind, students and teachers worked together to build and decorate indoor planters, creating a more inviting and stimulating environment. A dedicated Green Team now takes care of the plants, ensuring their continued growth and well-being.
The project aimed to make the learning environment greener while highlighting the positive effects of plants on well-being and concentration. Funding was provided through the “Cool Green School” initiative and the Parent Association, making the transformation possible.
As a result, the learning islands in the hallways are now framed by lush green planters, making these spaces more inviting and enjoyable for everyone. The students played an active role in shaping the initiative—they had the freedom to decide on the visual design of the elements and the selection of plants. Their ideas, wishes, and needs were directly incorporated into the process, ensuring that the project reflects their vision for a greener, more inspiring learning space.
Our green playground
School: CEIP Emperador Carlos V
Location: Spain, Getafe
Two years ago, a school garden was created, offering students hands-on learning experiences during their science classes. Over time, it became clear that the garden could provide even more than just academic lessons—it could serve as a space for connection, well-being, and environmental awareness.
Some children prefer a quiet place during recess, and a group of passionate teachers recognized the potential of integrating garden care into break times. Now, students can engage with nature, take care of plants, and find a peaceful retreat in the garden. The project emphasizes the use of environmentally friendly materials and plant cuttings collected and cultivated by the students themselves.
Beyond gardening, the initiative fosters collaboration and a sense of belonging. Special activities, such as those during environment and health Week, allow older students to teach younger ones about plant care, reinforcing values of teamwork and responsibility.
Students play a key role in shaping the project. Their ideas and contributions influence activities, making the garden a dynamic and evolving space that adapts to their interests each year. The initiative continues to grow, expanding its impact beyond sustainability to create a more connected and engaged school community.