How Can Schools be More Sustainable: Sustainable Design in Education

08/08/2024

Grup Efebé

Environmental development and sustainability should be integral parts of daily life in schools, not just topics covered. We need to change our habits and create a sustainable school in itself. Environmental responsibility is no longer an option but an urgent necessity. Today, more and more families are seeking educational centers that meet sustainable standards and promote environmental education.

At Grup Efebé, we transform schools into sustainable learning environments to make these crucial changes a reality, enhancing the well-being of individuals and the planet every day.

Sustainable Design in Education

Sustainable design of educational spaces reduces energy consumption and improves the learning environment —as well as the well-being of students and staff— through the use of efficient and environmentally friendly techniques and materials. At Grup Efebé, we advocate for biophilic design in schools as a means of promoting environmental education and efficient natural resource management. We believe that sustainability should be part of the school’s culture and values in order to develop environmentally conscious and responsible citizens.

És important que els centres educatius adoptin iniciatives per a fomentar l’educació i la gestió ambiental. Doncs, han de ser responsables tant amb les persones com amb l’entorn. A més, la sostenibilitat ha de formar part de la cultura i els valors de l’escola, per a crear ciutadans conscients i responsables amb el medi ambient.

Sustainable architecture refers to design and renovation projects that optimize natural resources to minimize environmental impact, adhering to energy efficiency criteria. There are 6 principles of sustainability that we apply in our school renovation projects:

  • Thermal and Acoustic Insulation: Thermal insulation can reduce energy losses by 50% to 70%, resulting in significant energy savings. For acoustic comfort, we condition interior spaces with sound-absorbing acoustic panels to reduce generated reverberation. These panels have a high sound absorption capacity due to their composition and porosity. Additionally, the options available in our catalog are made from eco-friendly materials recycled from plastic bottles.
  • Natural and Healthy Materials: Selecting materials that are both natural and provide health benefits is essential. We work with materials that are free from harmful chemicals and have minimal environmental impact. For instance, we use sustainably sourced wood, eco-friendly paints and natural fabrics. These choices contribute to creating a healthier and more sustainable environment for both students and staff.
  • Maximizing Natural Lighting:Efficient lighting design maximizes the use of natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting and energy savings. Techniques include painting walls and ceilings with light colors to reflect more light, using light-regulating systems with sensors, and incorporating LED or compact fluorescent lights, which consume significantly less energy than conventional bulbs. Additionally, installing motion detectors helps to automate the lighting system, ensuring lights are only on when needed.
  • Biophilic Design in Schools: By incorporating elements of nature within the school environment, such as plants and green spaces, we foster direct interaction with nature. Biophilic design in schools not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space but also supports the cognitive, emotional and physical development of students. Additionally, the presence of natural elements in the classroom teaches important values of environmental stewardship and sustainability.
  • Mechanical Ventilation: Indoor air quality is crucial for the health and well-being of students and staff. We install mechanical ventilation systems that ensure a constant supply of fresh, filtered air. These systems remove stale indoor air and replace it with clean outdoor air, using high-efficiency filters to capture dust, pollen, allergens, microorganisms and chemical pollutants. This results in a healthier indoor environment, reducing the risk of respiratory problems, allergies and other health issues.
  • Water Conservation:: Implementing water-saving measures is essential in sustainable architecture. We suggest installing low-flow fixtures in faucets, showers and toilets to reduce water usage without compromising functionality. Rainwater harvesting systems can capture and store rainwater for various uses. Additionally, planting native or climate-adapted plants in school gardens reduces the need for irrigation, conserving water. Monitoring and managing water use helps identify and fix leaks, ensuring efficient water use.

 

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Acoustic Insulation at Escola Fundació Llor, in Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona. Efebé’s Project. Photography: Joan Azorín.

Benefits of Sustainable Design in Education

Transforming schools into sustainable learning environments brings numerous benefits that extend beyond environmental impact.

By embracing these principles and making concerted efforts towards sustainability, educational centers can play a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable future. Sustainable design in education not only benefits the environment but also creates healthier, more engaging and more productive learning environments for students. As we move towards a more eco-conscious world, schools must lead by example, teaching the next generation the importance of sustainability through both curriculum and practice. If you’re interested in transforming your educational center into a model of sustainability, contact us to learn how we can help make that vision a reality.

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