EcoSTEAM Project Webinar: Sustainability in Education and Exploring Innovative Approaches to Ecological Literacy in Schools

The EcoSTEAM Project hosted a highly engaging and insightful webinar on Friday, 21 February 2025, as part of its ongoing Erasmus+ funded initiative to enhance STEAM education and promote environmental sustainability among secondary school students across Europe.

Titled “Sustainability in Education: Exploring Innovative Approaches to Ecological Literacy in Primary and Secondary Schools”, the webinar gathered 75 participants to explore diverse strategies for integrating sustainability into educational practices. The event facilitated thought-provoking discussions on how ecological literacy can be fostered through interdisciplinary learning and innovative pedagogical approaches.

The session opened with a welcome and introduction by Ms. Eleni Siaili, CARDET STEAM Education Researcher and Project Manager, who outlined the project’s goals, mission, and impact. Following this, a distinguished panel of experts delivered insightful presentations:

• “STEM+ for Sustainability in Education: The Role of ESD in Professional Development” – Ms. Efstathia Dareiou, Unit of Education for Environmental and Sustainable Development (MEPAA), Ministry of Education
• “Investing in Future Generations for Cyprus’ Environmental Protection” – Ms. Sophia Matsi, Executive Director, Cyprus Environment Foundation
• “Enhancing Marine Environmental Awareness through Creative Arts” – Ms. Rebecca Katsari, Educator & Program Designer, Enalia Physis
• “Environmental Education: Challenge and Opportunity” – Ms. Efi Xanthou, Secretary-General, Cyprus Green Political Party “Oikologoi”
• “Precious Plastic: Turning Environmental Threats into Global Opportunities” – Mr. Alexandros Ioannou Pelleties, Founder, Precious Plastic Cyprus
• “Sustainable Waste Management in Vocational Education: The GROWS Example” – Ms. Markella Papanikolaou, CARDET Environmental Education Researcher & Project Manager
• “Interdisciplinary STEAM Approaches for Sustainability: From Geography Education to Environmental Innovation” – Mr. Christos Procopiou, CARDET Environmental & STEAM Education Researcher

The event concluded with a reflective session, highlighting the need for sustained collaboration between educators, researchers, and policymakers to advance global environmental and educational goals. The insights gained from this webinar will serve as a foundation for future EcoSTEAM initiatives, reinforcing the project’s vision of a greener, scientifically engaged Europe.

The EcoSTEAM Project is committed to cultivating a new generation of environmentally aware citizens equipped with the scientific knowledge and skills to address global challenges. Through collaborative pilot programs and ongoing research, the project seeks to deepen the impact of STEAM education on student performance, fostering both scientific citizenship and sustainable lifestyles.

🔗 Learn more about the EcoSTEAM Project: https://ecosteamdevelopment.com/