Sustainability
Explore our early years sustainability blogs and resources to find simple, inspiring ideas for embedding eco-friendly practice.
Sustainability
Embedding sustainability in early years education is essential for nurturing environmentally conscious habits from the very start. By introducing children to eco-friendly practices early on, we help them develop a sense of responsibility for the planet, build respect for nature, and understand the impact of their actions.
Our collection of blogs and resources offers simple, inspiring ways for educators and parents to weave sustainability into everyday practice.
What is Sustainability?
Sustainability is a term that has become increasingly important in our modern world. It is the ability to continue using resources without depleting them or causing harm to the environment for future generations. It means meeting today’s needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, and this involves a balance between environmental protection, social equity, and economic viability.
Environmental
Protecting natural resources, reducing pollution, and preserving biodiversity. For example, by using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power instead of limited fossil fuels.
Social
Promoting fair treatment, safe workplaces, and equal opportunities for everyone. This includes access to fair wages, quality education, and healthcare for all.
Economic
Developing systems that are profitable in the long term that create value for society without damaging the environment.
Sustainability Requirements in Early Years
As part of the Department for Education’s (DfE) Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy, all early years settings must have a nominated sustainability lead and put in place a climate action plan in 2025. This initiative aims to embed sustainable practices, teach environmental awareness, and reduce the impact of educational settings, with support provided through guidance tools and training.
Key areas for focus include waste reduction, energy conservation, promoting sustainable travel, and integrating nutrition and food choices that link to sustainability. The DfE emphasise that all educators should provide ‘knowledge-rich’ learning experiences and encourage children ‘to know the truth about climate change’.
Therefore, it is vital that early years settings improve their awareness and develop a deeper understanding of what sustainability means in practice.
How to Embed Sustainable Practice in Early Years
Reduce Environmental Impact
- Limit and reduce the amount of single-use plastics.
- Converse energy by switching off lights and other forms of electrical equipment.
- Reuse and recycle to minimise waste.
Community and Family Involvement
- Share sustainable messages with families to support sustainable practices at home.
- Promote toy swaps or donations to extend the life of toys and reduce landfill waste.
Environmentally-Friendly Resources
- Opt for natural or recycled materials such as FSC-certified wood, organic cotton, and recycled plastics.
- High-quality, long-lasting toys reduce waste by avoiding frequent replacements.
Environmental Education
- Provide teaching opportunities to improve children and staff’s knowledge about climate change. Connect sustainability to learning by exploring topics like the importance of bees or the origins of seeds.
- Teach children effective strategies on how to care for their environment. Activities like gardening, nature walks, and mini-beast hunts connect children to the environment.
Sustainable Food and Nutrition
- Teach children where food comes from and organise activities where children can grow their own food.
- Involve children in the preparation of food. Encourage children to learn about healthy, balanced diets and the environmental impact of food choices.
- By engaging children with eco-friendly activities and resources, early years educators can nurture a lifelong respect for nature and sustainable living.
Sustainable Toys and Resources
- Wooden Building Blocks: FSC-certified, open-ended play that builds fine motor and spatial skills.
- Recycled Plastic Trucks: 100% recycled materials; encourage pretend play with lower environmental impact.
- Wooden Pretend-Play Sets: Kitchens, markets, and vehicles that spark creativity and social development.
- Sensory Toys: Made from natural, sustainable materials to safely engage multiple senses.
- Sorting & Matching Crates: Wooden fruit/veg sets that support early numeracy and sorting skills.
Our Sustainability Blogs
Simpler Recycling
Showcase Magazine: Winter 2026
Wet Wipes Ban: Impact on Early Years
Wet Wipes BanA new ban on selling wet wipes made from plastic will be signed into law in England from May 2027. According to the Government, wet wipes containing plastic are a growing source of pollution, with a recent study showing that an average of 20 wet wipes are...