How Your Students Benefit From Teaching Sustainable Methods

How Your Students Benefit From Teaching Sustainable Methods 

Taking care of the environment is such a complex topic, but by introducing eco-friendly education to your course, both you and your students can benefit.

More colleges and universities are embracing this approach by incorporating sustainability in their curriculum and taking initiatives towards environmentally friendly practices in their institutions. But how can you put your knowledge of sustainability to use or further your understanding along with your students? This article aims to show how imparting knowledge about sustainable practices in colleges and universities can benefit the future of the planet and your students.

More Career Options

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword, but a reality that students will eventually face in their careers. By teaching it you’ll prepare your students for work with companies that have carbon goals or specialist sustainability requirements. Not all trades can be performed the same way, they must adapt for modern needs. Many future employers will be looking to increase their publicity through a lower carbon footprint and will often require their employees or hired tradesman perform under new standards.

A new world of potential

It’s also worth considering the funding involved with eco-friendly Engineering & Construction jobs. New building methods require funding into new techniques, materials and projects, opening up career opportunities for graduates.

A famous example would be Volkswagen, after their recent scandal, they committed $900m to the production of more environmentally friendly cars and production methods. If you want your students to be at the top of those interviews, an education in sustainable production methods, would shine on their CVs.

Future employers are aware of the value in sustainable product. Gen Z are drawn to businesses with value. According to a 2023 study, 64% of Gen Z are willing to pay more for sustainable or environmentally friendly products.

Higher student engagement

Furthermore, it’s no secret that relatable educators can have a stronger impact on student engagement and by meeting “on their level” and interests, you can spark their enthusiasm. Choosing to engage with new ideas and trending topics among the new generations, can help you keep your students interested and ready to brainstorm innovative approaches to their future career.

Gen Z has a strong commitment to sustainability, with 82% expressing concern about the state of the planet. If you want to connect with your students, sustainability is a key area you can relate to them on. With 72% of Gen Z saying they have already changed their behaviour to reduce their impact on the environment, it’s an important part of their lives.

Positive impact on the planet

This is also a positive way to spread environmental engagement. Teaching sustainability can help create a culture of sustainability in colleges and universities and beyond. When students learn eco-friendly practices, they gain enough knowledge to adjust their lifestyles to benefit the environment. Eventually, they can influence their families, friends, and circles to make sustainable choices too. As an educator, its important to appreciate that by teaching climate-change combatting techniques, you’ll help students develop excellent habits in aid of the environment.

Make your course more attractive to students

Finally, Colleges and universities that implement sustainable practices and teach sustainability are more likely to attract students interested in contributing meaningfully to the environment and society. Alongside increased admissions, trading standards, and alumni relations, these sustainable practices help universities become excellent ambassadors for positive change, attracting students who are committed to creating an enduring impact in the world. Similarly, educators that teach sustainability become thought-leaders, creating a platform for their students to generate a positive social impact and, therefore, contribute to global social and environmental concerns.

A study by the University of Winchester found that 70% of Gen Z view a university’s  “strong commitment to social justice and equality” as an important factor in deciding where they enrolled.

Conclusion:

Sustainability is now a crucial issue; it is essential to consider the benefits of teaching sustainability to college and university students. Teaching sustainable practices can provide a robust foundation for students by enabling them to develop the tools and knowledge required to make sound environmental choices and maximise their potential career paths. The engagement and awareness of sustainability in universities can attract a higher number of dedicated students and create a better workforce who are making positive steps towards shaping a sustainable future in their field of work.