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“The country is undertaking an ambitious effort to reimagine its schools as sustainable, innovative spaces that benefit both students and teachers, as well as the wider school community and the environment,” explained Dr Aravella Zachariou, Head of the Education for the Environment and Sustainable Development Unit of the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth.

By scaling energy efficiency measures and ensuring cross-sector collaboration, PEDIA drives a meaningful and long-term whole system approach. The project has started to support the upgrading of 25 public schools which were selected following a needs assessment. Led by architects from the Cyprus Energy Agency, the upgrades include the instalment of thermal façades, energy-efficient doors and windows, LED lighting, additional solar panels, and, where feasible, green roof gardens. 

Environmentally friendly schools go beyond energy efficiency. The  of Cyprus’ schools have made classrooms more sustainable, comfortable, and healthier places for learning. As living laboratories, these schools have immersed students in sustainability, fostering lifelong environmental stewardship and offering them a hands-on learning experience in sustainability.  

As they witnessed their schools’ transformation, students gained a deeper understanding of environmental responsibility. More importantly, what was learned at school also made its way to the students’ homes. “I explained everything that we learned about sustainable practices to my parents, and we do the same at home,” shared Raphael, a student at Dali B’ Elementary School.

Teachers were given an opportunity to enhance educational outcomes, integrating , into the curriculum. Students, for instance, were taught how their school was built and operates, by looking at the renewable energy systems in its infrastructure. By utilizing textbooks, digital platforms, and expert visits alongside the energy upgrades, teachers engaged students in exploring climate change, sustainability, and the critical role of energy efficiency in building climate resilience.

The PEDIA project demonstrates how education and sustainability can work together to create a systemic approach that can transform education and build a more sustainable future.