As part of ESCS’s commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, particularly in the areas of energy efficiency and responsible water management, the School established an Eco-Escolas Council in the 2019/2020 academic year. The Council is responsible for implementing a range of initiatives under the Eco-Escolas Programme and for preparing the School’s application for EcoCampus status, in partnership with ESML and ESELx.
The main objectives of the ESCS Eco-Escolas Programme are to raise awareness and encourage the ESCS community to adopt more sustainable practices, promoting the reduction of water and electricity consumption, increased waste separation for recycling, sustainable mobility, the circular economy, and the digitalisation of academic work and administrative processes. Through these efforts, ESCS seeks to contribute to a more sustainable society by encouraging changes in attitudes and behaviour across its community.
To achieve these goals, a range of initiatives have been implemented over recent years, including:
- A student kit containing items made from environmentally friendly materials;
- The organisation of two swap fairs and study material collection initiatives during each academic year;
- Lectures, seminars and workshops addressing different aspects of environmental sustainability;
- The replacement of old taps with timed taps and the gradual replacement of conventional light bulbs with LED lighting, with the aim of reducing water and electricity consumption;
- The creation of a dedicated recycling point for the collection of light bulbs, batteries, waste electrical and electronic equipment, plastic bottle caps, and Dolce Gusto and Delta coffee capsules, contributing to improved waste management;
- Greater involvement of academic staff in incorporating sustainability topics into their Course Units, reflected in the academic work developed by students.
Useful links:
ABAE-Blue Flag Association of Europe
Eco-Schools
GRACE-Reflection Group and Support for Corporate Citizenship
APA-Portuguese Environment Agency