Lucknow,
04 June (HS): On World Environment Day, June 5, 2025, the work being done by
Nature Positive Universities is inspiring students and educators around the
world. Founded by UNEP and the University of Oxford, in partnership with the UN
Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, Nature Positive Universities is a network of
people from over 500 global institutions. Their shared goal is to work towards
promoting nature on campuses and in cities. The network believes that
educational institutions can use their influence to create a transformative
momentum, counter the climate crisis and build resilient ecosystems. Currently,
over 450 students from 40 countries join monthly workshops and implement
positive actions on their campuses.
Oliver
Russell, Deputy Head at Shrewsbury International School India, believes the
rising emphasis on nature-integrated campuses is not only a hopeful sign for
the planet but also vital for nurturing the whole child. Eco-consciousness was
a founding principle behind establishing Shrewsbury International School India
in the clean, green environs of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The campus is powered
by solar energy and enriched by over 50,000 fruit-bearing and flowering trees,
creating a vibrant and sustainable learning environment.
The
school, says Mr. Russell, exemplifies the global focus on sustainability, and a
strong connection to the natural world. He also offers a few reasons why
campuses are striving to be nature-positive in India as well as in other countries.
Nature
fosters holistic development: Modern institutions may increasingly turn to
smart classrooms and digital innovation, but there is a growing realisation
that no screen can substitute for the grounding power of the natural world.
Parents today actively seek schools that offer their children green campuses
and expansive outdoor spaces. They understand that nature doesn’t merely
soothe—it strengthens. It reduces stress, nurtures emotional stability, and
fosters a calm, clear state of mind vital for learning and growth.
Natural light positively impacts learning: Daylight
is not just a design feature - it is a learning catalyst. Studies have shown
that students in well-lit classrooms perform significantly better, with
improvements of up to 20% in mathematics and 26% in reading, as found in the
landmark Heschong Mahone Group study. Natural light improves mood, focus, and
cognitive function.
At
Shrewsbury School India’s campus in Bhopal, classrooms and common areas receive
ample natural light and open into the outdoor spaces, providing a sense of
serenity that is both stimulating and restorative.
Exploration
of open spaces sparks creativity: Open, uncluttered spaces aren’t merely
aesthetic - they are pedagogical. When children are given the freedom to move,
explore, and engage with their surroundings, creativity flourishes. Gardens,
courtyards, shaded walkways, and even moments of solitude become powerful
learning tools. These experiences build independence and spark joy. They also
help reduce screen addiction by introducing children to fulfilling alternatives
- gardening, nature trails, and unstructured play that ignites the imagination.
Early
green advocacy prepares mindful citizens: True education is not confined to
academics - it must foster environmental and social responsibility. The next
generation must be equipped not only with knowledge, but with conscience. At
Shrewsbury India, students engage deeply with sustainable practices - from
composting and gardening to water conservation and plastic reduction. These
habits don’t just prepare children for exams; they prepare them to be
custodians of the Earth.
Sustainability
is a foundation: The schools of the future will not be concrete jungles—they
will be living ecosystems. Green campuses today boast improved air quality,
biodiversity, low carbon footprints, energy efficiency, and advanced water
conservation technologies. At Shrewsbury India, we see sustainability not as an
addition, but as our foundation. Our entire campus is designed to support
environmental stewardship alongside academic excellence.
Hindusthan Samachar / Abhishek Awasthi
