GreenVET pathway

The image shows a light green suggestion box labeled with a lightbulb icon and surrounded by colorful sticky notes, placed next to a framed suggestion form that prompts users to write ideas, benefits, and comments

Box for ideas

Create a low threshold method for the school community to share ideas where the school's practices can become more sustainable.

Key People and Partners Involved

• Students (as idea contributors and reviewers)
• Teachers and staff
• Eco-coordinators or green teams
• School administrators
• Parents or local partners (optional)

Description of the practice

The Box for Ideas is a low-threshold, inclusive tool to gather creative, practical, and realistic sustainability suggestions from the entire school community. Whether in the form of a physical box placed in a hallway or a digital suggestion form on the school's website or platform, it ensures that every voice can be heard.

This method not only generates innovative ideas"such as switching to reusable canteen cutlery, planting trees, or improving waste sorting"but also strengthens ownership and engagement in environmental efforts. It allows everyone, regardless of age or role, to contribute to shaping a greener school.

Suggestions can be reviewed regularly by an eco-committee or student council, and selected ideas can be turned into projects or actions. This simple practice builds community spirit and encourages continuous improvement in the school"s sustainability work.

Where it’s being implemented

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• The SDG@School Idea Box is an online platform that encourages students and teachers to engage with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through concrete actions and project ideas. It offers a structured collection of best practices, inspiration, and tools to support schools in implementing sustainability initiatives, making it easier to turn global goals into local, classroom-based impact.
  https://www.sdgsatschool.be/en/idea-box

Impact and Results

• Increased student and staff engagement in sustainability
• Creative, actionable ideas for greener school practices
• Inclusive participation from the whole community
• Strengthened culture of responsibility and innovation
• Easy way to collect feedback for school sustainability planning

Implementation Tips and Insights

• Place the box in a visible, high-traffic area
• Make it anonymous and judgment-free
• Review ideas monthly with a student-staff team
• Celebrate implemented ideas publicly (e.g., board, newsletter)
• Try a digital version for older students or remote participation