EcoSchools is a program established to help schools to expand their sustainability practices through a certification framework. Since 2012, Trinity College School has undertaken this certification process as a means to encourage action and accountability for the integration of sustainable practices and knowledge in all aspects of school life. 

In morning chapel service on Friday, May 24th, eco-steward Bianca R. announced that, for the seventh year, TCS submitted documentation to certify at EcoSchools’ highest level, platinum. This level requires a school to obtain 101 points in the certification platform, and TCS submitted 165 points. In mid-June, we learned the exciting news that our platinum certification has been confirmed!

Attaining certification is a school-wide effort, led by the Sustainability Office but involving collaboration with school leadership, operational and educational staff, and students. Through the auditing process, the School measures its actions in areas including operations (energy and water use, waste and recycling, transportation); special programs (such as Earth Day, the Big Tree Plant, Polar Bear Day and the TCS Sustainability Showcase); initiatives that get students involved in sustainability (eco-stewards, Trinity Environmental Action Council, green house reps, the Junior School Eco-Warriors, environmental service learning, trips such as Island School, and groups like SEEDS, beekeeping, etc.); and how sustainability is integrated into curriculum. These are just a few examples of the many ways the School endeavours to build sustainability into its daily actions and to advance understanding of the role we all play as stewards of the planet.

Thanks to this collaborative effort, we are proud to add another platinum sticker to the School’s EcoSchools plaque!