SPARK - Circular Economy Education
About this good practice
In Spark the Movement young people, teachers and staff of all schools in all levels, from primary schools to university level, are involved. In 2021 SPARK was acknowledged by the United Nations as a RCE, a regional community-centre of expertise on education for sustainable development. Spark is the hub in an ecosystem of schools (from primary school to university) and of governments, businesses and civil society organisations. These regional communities focus on shared learning for sustainable development and are connected to the European and global RCE Network.
SPARK offers all sections in Frisian education the inspiration, the expertise and the tools to learn together with regional partners how broad prosperity can take shape.
We do this, because we believe there is triple added value when young people develop the knowledge, skills and attitude that contribute to prosperity: for themselves, for a socially and ecologically sustainable region, and for a meaningful, future-worthy proposition of the northern economy.
SPARK believes it takes the region to raise a child. If we want youngsters to develop the knowledge and the skills for a thriving 22nd century, we have to connect them to the challenges the world faces; we cannot learn to be or become sustainable from a booklet.
Resources needed
SPARK is in initiative of the Circular Friesland Association. It is powered by regional educational institutions, business and public authorities alike.
Evidence of success
In 2021 SPARK was awarded the title 'Regional Centre of Expertise' by the United Nations. Additionaly, the story has been shared on multiple national and international stages.
Potential for learning or transfer
The organization behind SPARK is very open to engage with others to work together on circular education. Inspired by the method? SPARK develop a toolkit on how to start a movement in your region. Please find out more via the links below.