Cover photo of the C.S. Lewis Bilingual Highschool in Bratislava, Slovakia. Source: Case studies on learning environments for sustainability
PPMI | Part of the Verian Group has completed the DG EAC–commissioned study “School Learning Environments for Sustainability in EU Member States”. The study explored how education infrastructure and school environments across Europe can better support sustainability, climate resilience, and student well-being and learning.
Through an EU-wide literature and policy review, comparative analysis of Member State strategies, a survey of school leaders and experts, case studies, and validation workshops, the research identified both institutional and policy-level drivers and challenges shaping sustainable learning environments.
The study produced a set of practical outputs for schools and policymakers, including:
- A final study report mapping national and institutional approaches across the EU.
- A practical toolkit with actionable guidance for schools.
- A compendium of good practices showcasing diverse European examples.
- Case studies of school and policy initiatives
- An animated video introducing the concept of sustainable learning environments.
Findings highlight that sustainable schools go beyond green buildings: when physical spaces are paired with innovative pedagogies and participatory approaches, they strengthen well-being, learning outcomes, and sustainability competences. The study also underlined significant knowledge gaps, such as limited data availability on the spread and impact of sustainable learning environments across Member States.
The results were presented at a widely attended online dissemination event, bringing together over 220 participants from 37 countries, including policymakers, school leaders, educators, researchers, architects, and parents.
