Sustainability in college learning and teaching: research report
Context
Colleges play a crucial role in equipping people and communities with the knowledge and skills we need. In a world of accelerating social and environmental crises, this includes learning for sustainability, so we can reach our ambitious targets for people and the planet. However, little is known about sustainability in college learning and teaching in Scotland.
This research, carried out by EAUC Scotland, explored the current status of sustainability in college learning and teaching in Scotland, as well as the barriers, opportunities, and the most impactful actions to advance sustainability.
Using a mixed-method approach, we engaged 123 staff members and college leaders from 15 out of 24 Scottish colleges through in-depth interviews, workshops and surveys.
Thank you to everyone who gave us their time and contributed to this research.
Report
In November 2024, we published a full report outlining the current status of sustainability in college learning and teaching. The report illustrates how we arrived at our conclusions and is enriched with participant quotes. We also published a summary report with an overview of the findings. Both reports are available to download below.
Case studies
Through our research, we also found a wealth of innovative examples of sustainability teaching taking place in classrooms across Scotland.
In spring 2025, we published these as case studies.
- Jewellery: Outdoor learning boosting creativity and wellbeing
- Creative writing and literature: Engaging with global sustainability issues issues and envisioning a better future
- Bakery & Patisserie: Addressing food waste and sustainability through integrated assessments
| 25th November 2025 | |
| Resource | |
| Report summary - Sustainability in College Learning and Teaching | |
| Sustainability in College Learning and Teaching - EAUC Scotland research report | |
| EAUC Administrator |
