Sustainable Practices for Organizing Outdoor School Activities

Organizing outdoor school activities is more than planning a day away from the classroom. It is an opportunity to inspire students to move, explore and develop a deeper relationship with the natural world. Through the HIKEWISE project, teachers across Europe are receiving new tools that help transform these moments into meaningful and environmentally responsible learning experiences.

HIKEWISE encourages teachers to view outdoor sports, especially hiking, as a bridge between physical education and environmental awareness. The way these activities are prepared and guided influences how students learn to appreciate the nature that surrounds them.

A sustainable outdoor experience begins long before the class arrives at a trail. Choosing routes that are close to the school reduces transportation emissions and helps students see that nature is part of their everyday environment. Teachers involved in HIKEWISE often notice that when students explore familiar natural spaces, they develop a stronger sense of belonging and responsibility.

Once the activity begins, nature becomes a living classroom. Students can observe plants, listen for wildlife or notice signs of environmental change. These simple observations often spark conversations about ecosystems, biodiversity and the importance of conservation. HIKEWISE promotes this kind of direct and experiential learning, giving teachers the confidence to let students discover the environment in an organic and engaging way.

Sustainable behaviour is also an essential part of the experience. When students bring reusable bottles, avoid disposable packaging or keep the area clean, they are learning habits that will stay with them for life. These small actions reflect the HIKEWISE vision, which sees outdoor sports as an opportunity to develop both physical skills and environmental values.

Inclusivity is another key element. The project highlights the importance of ensuring that all students can participate in safe and enjoyable ways, including those with special educational needs. Choosing appropriate routes, adjusting the pace or adapting activities makes it possible for everyone to enjoy the experience. Outdoor learning becomes even more powerful when every student feels included and supported.

Reflection is an important step once the group returns to school. Teachers can invite students to share what they noticed during the hike, how they felt in nature or what they think they can do to protect the environment in their daily lives. HIKEWISE highlights reflection as a meaningful tool that helps students connect the outdoor experience with a long-term understanding of sustainability.

Sustainable outdoor activities do not require complicated planning. They grow naturally from thoughtful preparation, mindful behaviour and meaningful interaction. With the support of the HIKEWISE project, teachers have access to manuals, didactic units and training that make it easier to guide students in ways that respect nature and strengthen learning.

By preparing eco-friendly excursions, teachers help students develop healthier habits, a greater respect for their surroundings and a clearer sense of responsibility for the future of the planet. This is the essence of HIKEWISE. It invites young people to walk through nature with curiosity, gratitude and care.

As part of this mission, sustainable outdoor practices hold a very important place within the HIKEWISE manual. This theme has guided much of our work during the development process, since responsible interaction with nature is essential for any meaningful outdoor learning experience. The first version of the manual will be available for consultation very soon, giving teachers and schools the opportunity to explore the full range of recommendations and activities that support thoughtful, respectful and engaging outdoor education.