Green Cool Schools – Award 2024

Schulen, bäumt euch auf!

School: Aachener Gesamtschule
Location: Germany, Aachen

The pupils wanted a greener school, and a series of workshops were held to explore the possibilities. A green concept was developed, focusing on sustainability and improving the school environment. To bring these ideas to life, the school collaborated with the university, parents, local businesses, sponsors, and other partners to secure funding, as the city alone could not finance the project. Additionally, the ideas are being shared with other schools in the area, fostering a network for sustainable school development.

Change is already happening step by step. This school year, several projects have been implemented, such as the introduction of a mobile tree on wheels, allowing greenery to be moved around flexibly. Additionally, raised beds have been repaired, potted plants have been rescued, and a Green Council was formed to guide further developments.

Looking ahead, the schoolyard will continue to transform with various sustainable features, including facade greenery, hedges, trees, seating areas, green terraces, an outdoor classroom, and a drinking fountain.

Exciting plans for the coming school years are already in place, ensuring that the vision of a greener, more sustainable school environment continues to grow

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.