Across the UK, schools and Multi-Academy Trusts (MATs) are racing to align with the updated 2025 DfE climate change strategy and UK Government Net Zero targets. One of the key requirements of the sustainability in schools plan is that all schools must develop and implement their own Climate Action Plan by 2025, supporting the transition to greener education institutions.
The United Nations has warned that global greenhouse gas emissions require a 43% reduction by 2030 to prevent further climate disasters. While this may seem like a challenge beyond the scope of the education sector, the actions taken by schools and MATs today are vital. With iAM Sustainable, we can create your school’s perfect Climate Action Plan to contribute meaningfully to an eco-conscious future.
In this blog, we will explore:
- What a Climate Action Plan is
- Why sustainability in schools matters
- Factors to consider when implementing your school Climate Action Plan
- How iAM Sustainable can help you achieve eco school status
Let’s dive in!
At iAM Compliant, we provide a FREE trial of our award-winning web-based compliance tool, soon to be upgraded with our Sustainability feature. Track and manage assets, identify wasteful areas and provide IOSH-approved & CPD-accredited training courses for your staff. Get in touch today to experience expert compliance for your school or MAT!
What is A Climate Action Plan?
The UK government has set ambitious targets to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050, with an interim target of a 78% reduction by 2030. A key part of this strategy is the implementation of a Climate Action Plan for all schools.
A school Climate Action Plan clearly outlines the steps an education sector will take to reduce its environmental footprint and meet sustainability in schools targets. This could include addressing waste management, energy efficiency and introducing a sustainability guide for students within the curriculum.
Key components of your school Climate Action Plan may consist of:
- Energy Efficiency - Reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption across your school or MAT is simple with iAM Sustainable. Our comprehensive compliance tool allows you to easily track energy data and comply with climate regulations.
- Waste Management - According to recent data, each student generates between 20-45 kg of waste per year. With iAM Compliant, you can easily identify trends in wasteful areas and implement stronger recycling and waste management strategies.
- Sustainable Transportation - Promoting eco-friendly transport options for staff and students is one of the easiest ways to reduce your school’s carbon footprint. Implementing walk to school schemes and creating cycle spaces can encourage your wider community to travel eco-consciously.
- Reviewing Curriculum - Providing teaching about climate change and environmental efforts is crucial to campaigning for a greener future. Provide your staff with all-encompassing sustainability training with our growing course collection, Sustainability & Net Zero for Schools.
Are you unsure of where to start with meeting the updated DfE climate change strategy targets? Our FREE Sustainability Guide simplifies environmental compliance and helps you ensure a greener future for your school or MAT!
Why A Climate Action Plan Matters for Your School or MAT
A tailored school Climate Action Plan allows schools to navigate their journey towards sustainability, meeting both environmental and UK government targets. It provides a structured approach to sustainability guidance, addressing key challenges to reducing your carbon footprint.
Here’s why a clear and direct Climate Action Plan is essential when considering sustainability in schools:
- Compliance with Regulations - At iAM Compliant, our motive is simplifying compliance and school maintenance through our expert web-based compliance solution. Ensure your school aligns with DfE climate change strategy targets and UK government sustainability guides.
- Resource Efficiency - Reserving energy consumption, water efficiency and implementing waste reduction is a fantastic investment in your school’s future. Reduce energy bills and your carbon footprint with iAM Sustainable, starting at just £3 per day.
- Climate Change Education - A significant portion (20%) of UK students do not recall being taught about the climate crisis in school, highlighting a need for effective environmental education. Expand your curriculum and create an opportunity for students to engage with eco-conscious classroom activities from your Climate Action Plan.
- Sustainable Future - Schools and MATs account for around 40% of the UK’s public sector building emissions. With a specialist Climate Action Plan, you can support an environmentally friendly future for your students and staff while having a positive impact on the planet and climate education.
School Climate Action Plan Do’s & Don’ts
Creating a school Climate Action Plan or Carbon Reduction Plan can be a daunting task. It requires thoughtful planning, navigating complex regulations, analysing data and environmental expertise - that’s where iAM Sustainable comes in. Designed in line with the latest DfE strategy, our tool allows you to track, manage and update your Climate Action Plan with ease.
To help you get started, here are some key tips & tricks for developing your school Climate Action Plan successfully:
iAM Sustainable: Expert Climate Action Plan Guidance
At iAM Compliant, we understand that creating a comprehensive Climate Action Plan in line with the DfE climate change strategy targets can seem overwhelming. That’s why iAM Sustainable will help you every step of the way.
With our efficient built-in SECR (Streamline Energy & Carbon Reduction Reporting), energy audits and AI-Powered Sustainability News updates, our platform helps you tailor a school Climate Action Plan to your school or MAT’s needs. Don’t navigate the complexities of sustainability alone - let us help you build a greener environment for students and your wider school community.
Get in touch with us today and take the first step towards becoming a fully compliant eco school. Navigate sustainability in schools efficiently and successfully!
