Environmental Education provides our boys with a greater respect for and understanding of the significance of nature. It prepares boys for a workplace that increasingly requires skills and understanding in sustainability. Finally, above all else, it is a fun and satisfying way to spend time working on projects, lobbying for change, and working outdoors by tending to Eton’s grounds and protecting its wildlife.
Environmental Action
Boys meet several times a week to work on various projects concerning the environment at Eton and beyond.
Examples of projects undertaken recently include:
- national partnerships with various schools to organise local environmental events
- an international partnership to develop a joint solar panel initiative with a school in Africa
- working on an allotment in a nearby village
- regeneration of Eton’s more overlooked natural spaces
- creating an inclusive atmosphere for boys from all blocks (year groups) at Eton to follow their passions
Boys are also encouraged to pursue their own environment-related interests, and are supported in any individual projects they may wish to undertake. A recent successful initiative was the schoolwide implementation of reusable water bottles, with F Block (Year 9) being automatically assigned their own bottles on arrival. Other plans include the creation of an environmental publication to be sent out each half (term) to all boys, and the parent bulletin.
Beyond COP21 Symposium
In 2022, over 400 pupils from ten schools took part in the Beyond COP21 Symposium hosted at Eton College. Across two days of interactive discussions, workshops and a sustainability exhibition, pupils explored issues around climate change, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), environmental impacts and being more eco-conscious. Hosting Beyond COP21 was part of the College’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental education.
Keeper of Environmental Action
Each year, a Keeper of Environmental Action is appointed in B Block (Year 13). Often, the position is awarded to a boy who has made a significant contribution to Environmental Action, the Boys’ Environment Committee and the Environment Society during his time at Eton. This is a significant leadership role amongst the student body, with each new Keeper proactively assisting the Masters-in-Charge of the Environmental Society in their responsibilities.
Not only does environmental education create a greater love and awareness of the world around us, but is also opens up different careers in a stimulating and rewarding sector.
Current Boy, 2022
Environment Society
This boy-led society hosts speakers fortnightly on a broad range of environmental issues, from marine conservation to the running of an electric car company. Boys from any block (year group) may attend. Each year, one or two B Block (Year 13) boys are appointed as secretary for the society.
renewable electricity provision and on-going instalment of LED lighting throughout Eton College.
Boys’ Environment Committee
The Boys’ Committee report to the College Committee, ensuring student voice is heard at these meetings. Areas frequently under review include energy, food consumption and waste, biodiversity and, more recently, net zero targets.
Boys who are particularly engaged with environmental matters have the opportunity to apply for the role of Environment Representative for their boarding House. These boys, along with other interested boys, form the Boys’ Environment Committee. The Boys’ Environment Committee meets twice a half (term) to discuss initiatives happening in boarding Houses and more widely around the College.
