HAPPY PLANET

ECOLOGICAL INITIATIVES IN OUR SCHOOLS

 

POLAND

Here is the School newsletter “Happy Planet” – regular issues featuring articles, reviews of ecological books, interviews with local activists, and coverage of project activities.

PLANET THROUGH THE LENS

GREECE, THESSALONIKI

Students created a short awareness-raising film about marine pollution in Thessaloniki. They researched the causes and effects of pollution, recorded footage and prepared messages showing how people can help protect the sea and keep it clean.

ACADEMY OF WASTE HUNTERS - POLAND

The younger students are taking part in the program “Academy of Waste Hunters,” whose goal is to promote pro-ecological attitudes and teach children how to care for the environment.

As part of the first task, the children learned about the concept of the Circular Economy (GOZ – “gospodarka obiegu zamkniętego”), which is a system where waste becomes a resource and products are reused instead of being sent to landfills.

At the end of the lesson, the students created art projects using recycled materials, giving a second life to used packaging and other objects. Through this hands-on activity, they discovered that waste segregation and reuse play an important role in protecting our planet.

 

COMPETITION IN POLAND - BEST RECYCLED PROJECT - POLAND

As part of the ecological Happy Planet project, our school held a competition for students in grades 1–3 titled “Best Recycled Project.” The task was to create an autumn tree using waste materials. The aim of the competition was to develop students’ creativity, promote the idea of reusing resources, and encourage attitudes of environmental responsibility.

The submitted works showcased the students’ inventiveness and their ability to creatively reuse waste such as cardboard, newspapers, paper rolls, plastic bottle caps, CDs, and pieces of packaging. Individual elements were assembled and painted to create colourful and impressive compositions. The projects stood out for their interesting forms, careful craftsmanship, and skillful use of a variety of recyclable materials.

The competition demonstrated that waste can become valuable artistic material, and the children approached the ecological challenge with great enthusiasm and engagement. The autumn trees they created helped promote the idea of creative recycling. The competition was another important part of the environmental activities carried out within the Happy Planet project.

 

 

Creating Podcasts  in Greece

A "Leap into the Deep" for the Future of Our Oceans

The eco-club students of the Experimental Junior High School of Rhodes invite us to a unique audio experience. Through their new podcasts, the students take on the role of “ambassadors of the ocean,” exploring the fascinating world of our seas with a fresh perspective and highlighting the urgent need to protect them.

Why is it worth to listen to them?

The podcast is not merely a school project, but a meaningful reflection on the issues at hand. The students approach environmental issues with sensitivity and maturity, linking scientific knowledge with activism. Through their discussion, it becomes clear that protecting the  environment in general is not just a matter for experts, but a collective responsibility that begins in the classroom.

As for the song “Small Acts”: The Message Set to Music

The culmination of their creative effort comes at the end of the episode, with the song “Small Acts.” The song’s title perfectly encapsulates the philosophy of the entire project: that major changes on the planet begin with the daily, conscious choices each of us makes.

It acts like an inspiration for the educational community.

The initiative of the Experimental Junior High School of Rhodes is an excellent example of how technology (podcasts) can be combined with environmental education and creative expression. Students don’t just learn about ecology; they become creators

Recycling at our school

Protect the seas

OBSERVING THE PLANT LIFE CYCLE IN A GREENHOUSE - POLAND

Younger students prepared seedlings of various plants in the classroom greenhouse. They independently sowed and planted lettuce, chives, beans, lamb’s lettuce, tulips, and pumpkins.

During the activity, students:

• learn about the stages of planting and caring for plants,
• discover what plants need to grow (light, water, warmth, and soil),
• develop responsibility and regularity in watering and observing changes,
• conduct observations of the plant life cycle—from a seed or bulb to a mature plant.

The classes are experimental and investigative in nature, fostering curiosity, patience, and care for the environment.

OBSERVATION OF THE PLANT LIFE CYCLE AFTER 10 DAYS

 

The students continued observing the plant life cycle of the seeds they had sown during earlier lessons. After 10 days, the children noticed the first clear changes.

For the seeds that had access to water, warmth, and sunlight, green sprouts and young stems began to grow. The students compared the growth rate of the plants, measured their height, and paid attention to the shape and color of the leaves.

The seeds that had warmth and sunlight but no access to water began to dry out.
The seeds that had access to water and warmth but no light showed the beginnings of sprouts and mold growth.

New plants—tulips, Hokkaido pumpkins, peppers, and tomatoes—were also added to the greenhouse.

Through daily observations, the students learned how essential light, water, and warmth are for plant development. The activity sparked their curiosity about nature and taught them consistency and responsibility in caring for plants.

 

AFTER 20 DAYS

The students continued observing the plant life cycle of the seeds they had sown during previous lessons. After 20 days, the children noticed new changes. For the seeds that had access to water, warmth, and sunlight, green sprouts and young stems appeared. The students compared the growth rate of the plants, measured their height, and paid attention to the shape and colour of the leaves. For the seeds that had warmth and sunlight but no access to water, the sprouts began to dry out, and the soil became cracked. For the seeds that had access to water and warmth but no light, development stopped and no new sprouts appeared. The tulips are growing beautifully, the tomatoes and peppers have sprouted, and the Hokkaido pumpkin developed in two pots. Unfortunately, despite the same conditions for all seeds, nothing developed in one of the pots. Through daily observations, the students are reinforcing their understanding of how important light, water, and warmth are for plant development, while also noticing that sometimes the right conditions are not enough.

Innovative project focusing on the study and cultivation 

of Mangifera indica from seed "Mango cultivation"

- reducing environmental impact

The Eco-Environmental Club of the Experimental Junior High School of Rhodes University of the Aegean, in collaboration with the Technology Teacher, implemented an innovative project focusing on the study and cultivation of Mangifera indica (mango) from seed, linking theoretical Biology knowledge with experiential learning. Students collected and prepared mango seeds, carried out the careful laboratory removal of the hard endocarp while protecting the embryo, studied germination under controlled humidity conditions, and systematically recorded growth data (plant height and leaf surface area) in relation to environmental factors.

Through this initiative, students explored the adaptability of a tropical plant to the Mediterranean climate, highlighting issues such as climate change and “food miles,” as well as the value of local cultivation and the reuse of organic waste as a source of life and oxygen within the framework of sustainability principles. At the same time, patience, responsibility, and collaboration were fostered through the partnership between the Environmental Club and the Technology teacher, transforming theoretical school knowledge into a meaningful, hands-on ecological learning experience.

Circular Economy – What Is It?

During our lessons, we discussed the concept of the Circular Economy (CE). In an art activity, the students learned about the journey of discarded waste as it is transformed into new products used in the economy. Through this, their awareness of waste segregation increased. The circular economy and the idea of viewing waste as a resource are becoming increasingly important in the context of caring for our planet. As a result of these activities conducted prior to the Clean Up the World campaign, the children approached the clean-up action with greater awareness. They collected litter thoughtfully, carefully sorting it into the appropriate bags and confidently applying their knowledge of the bag colours and their specific purposes. This proved to be an excellent way to foster pro-environmental attitudes from an early age and to encourage children to actively participate in environmental protection.

TOYS FROM RECYCLING  POLAND

For one week, the students were asked to set aside various discarded items at home that, in their opinion, could be useful for creating a toy. They brought plastic bottles, caps, cardboard boxes, cans, yoghurt containers, and many other objects. The students were divided into groups and tasked with designing a toy or a functional item. They constructed a vacuum cleaner, a hamster obstacle course, a sprayer, and many other creative inventions. During the following lesson, representatives from each group presented and discussed their projects. These activities not only fostered creativity and teamwork but also strengthened the students’ understanding of environmental protection. By giving waste a second life, the children developed a deeper awareness of the importance of reusing materials and reducing the amount of rubbish produced. The lesson helped them form pro-environmental habits that can positively influence their everyday behaviour.

BOTTLE CAPS RECYCLING PLUS ART IN 2ND GYMNASIUM SYKEON

Students collected plastic bottle caps and learned about recycling and the importance of reducing plastic waste. They then used the collected caps to create creative art projects, giving waste a second life and promoting environmental awareness.

ECO STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT - POLAND

During a series of lessons, younger students explored the significant impact that nature has on human life, as well as the profound influence of human activity on the natural environment. They learned about the principles of an ecological lifestyle and the habits that individuals should develop in order to contribute to environmental protection on a daily basis. Through practical activities, educational videos, discussions, and worksheets from the “Waste Hunters” programme, students deepened their understanding of key ecological concepts. As a culmination of their learning, each class developed its own Eco-Student Code of Conduct, outlining responsible behaviours that support sustainable and pro-environmental actions.

MEASURING ENERGY AT POLISH SCHOOL

In October, which was celebrated as Energy Saving Month, students at Primary School No. 13 actively took part in a series of practical activities. They explored how much electricity is used by everyday household and school devices and learned how their daily choices influence overall energy use. At home, they measured the time they spent using common electrical appliances such as TVs, laptops, Bluetooth speakers, refrigerators, radios, dishwashers, smartphones, and electric kettles. They also checked the power ratings of these devices. Using the formula power × time, they calculated the total energy consumed in kilowatt-hours (kWh), gaining a practical understanding of how energy usage is measured. In school, the students conducted additional measurements using a wattmeter. This handy device allowed us to determine the real-time energy consumption of devices such as a laptop charger, a digital camera charger, an interactive TV, a short-throw projector, school speakers, an electric kettle, a radio, and a photocopier. The students were able to compare theoretical calculations with real measurements, observing how different appliances behave under actual operating conditions. Additionally, several students designed and built their own small energy-saving devices. They created simple models and prototypes that demonstrated how energy efficiency can be achieved through thoughtful construction and practical engineering solutions. This hands-on task encouraged creativity and showed students that even small inventions can contribute to reducing energy use.

Energy Saving Month

Students took part in the educational project “Energy Saving Month.” The aim of the project was to increase environmental awareness and develop everyday habits connected with saving energy at home and at school. During the project, students documented their activities by creating short videos. Their work showed actions such as turning off lights in empty rooms, unplugging devices from standby mode, using natural daylight, and reducing hot water consumption. Students showed great creativity and engagement. They prepared interesting video materials and slogans promoting energy saving. Many students also involved their family members in the activities, which led to real changes in everyday habits. The project ended with a presentation of students’ work. It showed that even small changes in everyday behaviour can have a big impact on environmental protection.

Energy saving - English

The lesson began with a warm-up in which students brainstormed ideas on how to save energy at home or at school and shared them with the class. This activity activated prior knowledge and introduced the topic of energy saving and environmental responsibility. The first listening activity had students predict what people might do to save energy, then listen to a short recording with energy-saving tips. They completed a multiple-choice task to check understanding. In the second listening activity, students predicted actions for a clean-up day, listened to a recording about a school clean-up, and completed a TRUE/FALSE exercise. The lesson concluded with a wrap-up in which each student reflected on one new action they would take to save energy or help the environment.

Electricity experiment

Third-grade students, carrying out activities as part of the HAPPY PLANET project, participated in lessons focused on exploring natural phenomena in a safe, responsible way that fosters environmental awareness. The topic of the experiment with static electricity was linked to reflection on energy as one of the key resources of our planet and the need to use it wisely. During the lesson, students independently created paper figures from recyclable materials and then conducted an experiment using balloons. By rubbing the balloon against different fabrics, they observed the phenomenon of static electricity and its effects—the paper figures rose upward, which generated great interest and enthusiasm. The experiment became a starting point for discussing different forms of energy found in nature and how humans can use them responsibly with respect for the environment.

A WEEK WITHOUT A CAR IN POLISH SCHOOL

A WEEK WITHOUT CAR IN GREEK SCHOOL IN THESSALONIKI

COMPOST BIN IN POLAND

Observation of Organic Matter Decomposition

To study the degradation of biodegradable waste, we created a mini-compost system in a jar. In October, we added grass clippings. By November, the grass had softened, browned, and developed mold, emitting an unpleasant odor. We then added other organic materials, including tomatoes, eggshells, fruit cores, and yogurt residues, and resealed the jar. By January, all materials had noticeably changed in mass, shape, and color, with a strong odor of decomposition. This experiment provided a hands-on demonstration of natural decomposition, emphasizing the importance of composting and waste management. It promoted environmental awareness and encouraged students to adopt sustainable practices within the school.

Compost Bin in Rhodes, Greece

 

On the occasion of Global Recycling Day (March 18), students of the Experimental Junior High School of Rhodes, University of the Aegean, participated in a special hands-on environmental activity on March 19, organized through the collaboration of the Robotics Club and the Eco-Environmental Club.

The activity began with an engaging presentation about composting, where students learned how this natural process helps reduce waste and protect the environment. Inspired by this, they used  their creativity to design and build their own compost bin.

The experience continued outdoors in the school yard, where students worked together to collect natural materials such as leaves, branches, and grass. They were also offered fruits like bananas and mandarins, and after eating them, they used the peels to understand in practice how organic waste can be reused.

All the materials were then placed in the compost bin, completing the process of creating natural fertilizer. Through this experiential activity, students developed a deeper understanding of recycling, reuse, and responsible environmental behavior, realizing how simple everyday actions can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Smart Greenhouse Project in Rhodes, GREECE

As part of our school's innovative activities, the Robotics Club has launched the Smart Greenhouse project, an educational project that combines robotics, technology, and environmental awareness.
In this first phase of the project, students set up a mini indoor greenhouse, which will serve as the basis for the development of smart automation systems in the near future. At the same time, a detailed and particularly interesting presentation was given on smart greenhouses, their modern applications, and their role in sustainable agriculture and resource conservation, the link to which can be found below. Here is the presentation (in Greek):
https://prezi.com/view/x5uWI15pHFbvJNnz5dgX/?referral_token=fmhcZxlnB3FN

During this activity, students planted aromatic plants, specifically dill, parsley, and celery, learning:
the basic needs of plants in terms of light, water, and temperature,
the importance of proper care and monitoring of their growth,
and the relationship between the natural environment and technology.
The collaboration between the Robotics Club and the "Eco-Environmental Club was particularly important, giving the project a strong interdisciplinary character. The Environmental Club contributed significantly to the environmental approach of the action, the selection of plants, and the construction of the mini greenhouse. This collaboration highlighted the importance of connecting technology with the environment, as students realized that robotics can be a tool that can support sustainable development and the responsible use of natural resources.

The Smart Greenhouse is still a work in progress, and in the next stages of the project, students will work on adding sensors, automation, and smart features, turning the mini greenhouse into a complete educational system. This initiative is yet another example of our school's efforts to promote experiential learning, collaboration, and innovation, giving students the opportunity to learn through creation.

WASTE PAPER

The Student Council of Primary School No. 13 in Zawiercie organized a waste paper collection as part of the Happy Planet project. Thanks to the great involvement of students and all school staff, a large amount of paper was collected. This initiative helps our school become a true “Green School” and shows that through such actions we actively contribute to protecting the environment and promoting responsible habits within our community.

BATTERY COLLECTION IN POLISH SCHOOL

Students from the Student Council of Primary School No. 13 in Zawiercie organized a used battery collection. The campaign received great support from both students and school employees, which allowed us to collect many batteries that will now be properly recycled. Activities like this help raise environmental awareness and show that our school is committed to sustainable practices. By taking part in such initiatives, we work together to care for our planet and strengthen our role as a Green School.

BATTERY COLLECTION IN 2ND GYMNASIUM SYKEON

Students collected used batteries and learned about the importance of recycling hazardous waste. They learned how to dispose of batteries safely and how recycling helps protect the environment and conserve valuable resources.

RECYCLING PAPER IN 2ND GYMNASIUM SYKEON

Students collected used paper, learned how to sort it correctly, and discovered why recycling paper is important for protecting natural resources. They also promoted responsible waste management and reducing paper waste.

Making Recycle Bins at school (Rhodes))

As part of the activities of the Environmental Club, students of the Experimental Junior High School of Rhodes, University of the Aegean, implemented a creative and meaningful initiative aimed at strengthening recycling practices within the school environment. Specifically, they used recyclable and reusable materials such as cardboard boxes, plastic containers, and packaging to design and construct special recycling bins for paper, plastic, and aluminum. Students worked collaboratively in teams, taking responsibility for the design, decoration, and proper labeling of the bins, using colors, symbols, and awareness messages to inform and motivate the school community.

Through this activity, students understood the importance of waste separation at the source, material reuse, and reducing the environmental footprint. At the same time, they developed important skills such as creativity, teamwork, and responsibility, realizing that even simple everyday actions can make a significant contribution to environmental protection. The recycling bins were placed in selected areas around the school, promoting environmental awareness among all students and actively contributing to the creation of a more sustainable and environmentally friendly school environment.

BIRDS - FLYING ANIMALS

In March, children aged 4–5 completed the third module titled “Birds – Flying Animals” as part of the educational project “Animals and Plants of the Jurassic Region.” Through this module, they learned to recognize the names and appearances of birds found in the Kraków–Częstochowa Upland. As a hands-on activity, the children created hanging nests inside plastic bottles using previously collected natural materials such as moss, dry twigs, and grass. After completing their nests, they worked together with their teacher to hang them in a tree. In doing so, they helped support birds during the nesting season. By providing ready-to-use materials in a safe place, the children reduced the need for birds to gather them from the ground, where they are more vulnerable to predator attacks.

SCHOOL GARDEN IN POLAND

As part of the Happy Planet project, Polish students planted tomatoes and flowers in the school garden. This activity aimed to promote environmental responsibility and show how small actions can support a healthier planet. By growing their own plants, students learned about sustainable food production, the importance of biodiversity, and how plants improve air quality. The flowers were chosen to attract pollinators, while the tomatoes helped students understand where food comes from and encouraged healthy eating habits. Through this hands-on experience, students developed teamwork skills and a deeper connection with nature, realizing that caring for the environment starts with simple, everyday actions.

Gardening Activity in Rhodes, Greece

On the 19th February 2026, students of the Environmental Club had the opportunity to focus on gardening and participate in a special gardening activity with the help of an invited agronomist. During his visit, students learned about plants, their importance for the environment, and the basic principles of planting and caring for them. They were introduced to practical information about soil, watering, and how plants grow and develop properly.

Altogether, they planted a lemon tree and an olive tree in the school garden, contributing to the creation of a greener school environment. In addition, they planted various aromatic herbs in pots, which now decorate their classrooms and add freshness and colour to the learning space.

This activity helped students strengthen their connection with nature while developing a sense of responsibility, patience, and teamwork. At the same time, it showed them how caring for plants can improve their surroundings and create a more pleasant and sustainable school environment.

“Happy-Planeters” planting rooftops, Thessaloniki

Two hundred *Stipa* plants were planted on the sloping roof of our bioclimatic school; they were donated to us following a request we made to the Municipality of Neapoli-Sykies. The result is not only aesthetically pleasing but also serves as natural insulation for the school.

“Happy-Planeters” planting olive trees in the schoolyard; Thessaloniki

Identified with rebirth and light. A symbol of serenity, fertility, protection, peace, wisdom, victory, and immortality. Identified with the Olympic ideal.

HAPPY PLANET PODCAST BY 2ND GYMNASIUM SYKEON

Greek students created a podcast concerning our project. This is an excellent example of impact of the project on school community. Greek school in Thessaloniki can be proud to become a real "GREEN SCHOOL"

Reporting on Local Environmental Issues, Poland

As part of the project, students investigated environmental issues affecting their local community and prepared their own journalistic reports based on their findings. The main task was to look at the environment in their immediate surroundings from the perspective of local residents. Students selected an environmental topic that was relevant to their area, gathered information, observed the situation in the field, and then presented their findings in the form of a report. An important part of the task was conducting interviews with local residents and people connected with the issue. Students prepared questions, talked to residents, local activists, employees of local institutions or other people who could provide first-hand information, and used their statements as material for their reports. The final reports demonstrated that environmental issues are closely connected with everyday life and that local residents can be important sources of knowledge about changes taking place in their communities.

 

Nature Activity – From Seed to Plant

As part of a nature-based activity, students took part in hands-on lessons on sowing grains and observing plant growth. The aim was to help children understand how cultivated plants develop and to foster respect for farmers’ work and the natural environment. The lesson began with a discussion about the importance of cereals in human life and the different types of grains and products made from them. Students then prepared their own planting containers, filled them with soil, and carefully sowed seeds before watering them. In the following days, they regularly cared for their plants, checking soil moisture and observing changes. They were especially excited to see the first sprouts. Students compared growth rates and discussed how light, water, and temperature affect plant development. The activity allowed children to learn through experience, developing practical skills, responsibility, patience, and consistency, while better understanding the life cycle of plants and the importance of cereals in everyday life.

 

Making Organic Eco-friendly Soaps at School

As part of the Environmental Club activities, students of the Experimental Junior High School of Rhodes, University of the Aegean, participated in a creative hands-on activity in the Science Laboratory, in collaboration with the Science teacher, aiming to produce their own ecological and organic soaps. Students used natural and environmentally friendly materials, such as plant-based ingredients, natural fragrances, and ecological raw materials, in order to create their own soaps and understand in practice the importance of using products that do not harm the environment.

During the activity, they learned about the properties of natural ingredients, the soap-making process, and the biodegradability of ecological products. They also understood the differences between conventional and ecological soaps and their impact on ecosystems. Their active participation enhanced their creativity, teamwork, and sense of responsibility.

Through this activity, students realized that they can adopt more sustainable practices in their daily lives, contributing to pollution reduction and environmental protection, while transforming school knowledge into a meaningful and valuable real-life experience.

ECO FRIENDLY SOAP - POLAND

Polish school is taking steps towards becoming a Green School by promoting environmental awareness, sustainable practices and responsible consumption. During a chemistry lesson, students explored how chemistry can be used to create everyday products in a more conscious way. The main activity was making soap in the laboratory. Students learned that soap can be produced through a chemical reaction involving a fatty acid, such as stearic acid, and sodium hydroxide.  During the activity, students observed the changes taking place during the reaction and examined the properties of the soap they produced, including its texture, appearance and ability to foam. They also discussed the role of soap in everyday hygiene and the importance of choosing products that are safe for people and the environment. The lesson showed students that chemistry is closely connected with everyday life and that practical scientific activities can support the idea of a Green School. By making their own soap, students gained practical knowledge while reflecting on responsible consumption and environmentally friendly choices.

Eco Map of the Local Area - Poland

Polish students created an Eco Map of their local area, highlighting places and features connected with environmental protection. Working in groups, they explored their surroundings, collected information and identified both positive environmental initiatives and areas that could be improved. Students marked places such as green spaces, parks, recycling points, bicycle paths, clean-up areas and environmentally friendly facilities, as well as locations affected by litter or pollution.

Environmental Interviews

Students conducted short interviews about environmental problems and ecological issues.  They interviewed their peers, teachers, family members and other people from their local community. They collected different opinions and experiences and then shared the results with their international project partners. This activity helped students develop communication and interviewing skills, raise environmental awareness and understand different perspectives on ecological issues.

COLOUR GREEN

The HAPPY PLANET project has transformed Gymnasium Sykeon, Thessaloniki, Greece  into a more sustainable, environmentally conscious and active school community. What began as a project has gradually become a part of everyday school life...