Eco-Friendly Learning, Global Impact
At Expanish, we are dedicated to creating sustainable educational experiences that respect both the environment and the local communities we engage with. We strive to minimize our environmental footprint while promoting responsible travel and fostering a deeper understanding of sustainability in our students. From reducing waste to encouraging eco-friendly practices, we are committed to integrating sustainability into every aspect of our programs in Spain and Latin America
What We’re Doing Now
Here are some of the initiatives we've implemented to promote sustainability within our programs
All of our student accommodations are located within walking distance or are easily accessible by public transportation. This helps to reduce our students' carbon footprints while also promoting an active lifestyle and deeper connection to the local area.
Our after-school activities not only immerse students in the culture of their host cities but also teach them to appreciate and care for local ecosystems. We incorporate sustainable practices into these activities, encouraging students to respect their environment and take part in local sustainability efforts. By focusing on local experiences, we help students develop a stronger connection to the community and its sustainable practices.
Each student receives a welcome kit filled with reusable items like tote bags, water bottles, and sustainable local guides to help them settle in sustainably. This is part of our effort to reduce single-use plastic waste and promote more sustainable living practices from day one.
Through cooking classes and food tours, we highlight the use of local, seasonal ingredients, thereby reducing the environmental impact of food transportation. Our programs support regional farmers and promote a deeper understanding of the environmental importance of eating locally.
We ensure that all of our events, from welcome parties to excursions, are planned with sustainability in mind. This includes reducing waste, offering plant-based meal options, and using eco-friendly materials for event supplies.
Ideas for Future Sustainability Initiatives
While we’ve already made significant strides in promoting sustainability, we are committed to continuously improving and implementing new ideas that align with our values. Here are some initiatives we are considering for the future:
Implement a system to offset the carbon emissions generated by student travel to and from their program destinations. This could include partnerships with environmental organizations or tree-planting initiatives.
Offer students discounts on bicycles, scooters, or electric vehicle rentals to encourage sustainable transportation options while they explore their host city.
Partner with local, eco-conscious businesses to promote sustainable shopping, dining, and leisure activities. Students can learn about sustainable practices in various industries while supporting businesses that share our environmental values.
Provide students with workshops on sustainability topics, such as reducing waste, conserving water, and supporting eco-friendly local businesses. These could be integrated into our cultural programs to teach students how they can make a difference both abroad and at home.
Organize volunteer-based clean-up projects within local neighborhoods or natural areas to actively engage students in sustainability efforts. This would help foster a sense of responsibility for the environment while making a tangible positive impact on local ecosystems.
Strive to make more of our resources available digitally to reduce paper waste. Encourage students to use apps for event schedules, maps, and other program details instead of printed materials.
