The ACS Canada Eco-Friendly School Award recognizes educational institutions that embed sustainability across campus operations and learning—achieving verified reductions in environmental impact while improving student experience and community engagement.
What the Award Recognizes
- Measured reductions in waste, emissions, and energy use across campus
- Water efficiency projects and protection of local water quality
- Responsible sourcing, circular materials, and safe end-of-life pathways
- Pollutant reduction and compliance with environmental obligations
- Green education, staff training, and transparent reporting of KPIs
Eligibility
Open to K-12 schools, colleges, universities, academies, and training centers operating in Canada or with Canadian sites. Initiatives must show at least 12 months of documented progress and performance data.
How Entries Are Evaluated
- Impact: year over year improvements (water, waste, GHG, energy)
- Integrity: baselines, methodologies, and third-party evidence where applicable
- Integration: how initiatives are embedded into operations, curriculum, and culture
- Innovation: new technologies, circular solutions, and student-led projects
- Transparency: targets, KPIs, and clear public communication
Award Levels
- Recognized: strong foundation and verified initial results
- Merit: significant multi-site or multi-program results with mature controls
- Excellence: sector-leading outcomes with replicable best practices
Submission and Timeline
- Submit a summary of initiatives, scope, and 12-month metrics (PDF or link)
- Attach supporting evidence: policies, training, audits, and KPI dashboards
- ACS review, clarifications, and verification as needed
- Award announcement and media kit provided to winners
Why Apply
- Independent recognition that strengthens reputation and community trust
- Signals ESG credibility for grants, partnerships, and stakeholder reporting
- Boosts student engagement and staff retention through visible impact
- Media assets and permission to use the ACS Eco-Friendly School Award mark
Ready to be considered? Submit your summary and metrics to our certification team for review.
