Sustainability in early years education: How to nurture eco-friendly habits

At a time when climate and environmental issues are part of everyday conversation, sustainability is no longer just a fading trend. Working in early years education often means building foundational understanding in children across many aspects of life. Sustainability is one of them. There are many ways to teach children about the environment, whether through reducing waste or exploring nature together. Early years educators at N have embedded sustainable practices into daily nursery routines that help teach children responsibility and thoughtfulness. We will explore some of them below.

Key takeaways

• The early years are the ideal time to introduce sustainability, as habits and values formed at this stage can last a lifetime.
• Simple, consistent actions like recycling, turning off lights and caring for plants are the most effective approach with young children.
• Sustainability connects naturally with the EYFS framework, supporting areas including Understanding the World and Personal, Social and Emotional Development.
• Outdoor learning and nature play are among the most powerful ways to build a lasting connection with the environment.
• A whole-setting approach, backed by leadership and family involvement, is what makes sustainable habits truly stick.

Why sustainability matters in the early years

Shaping values from the start

The early years are a crucial stage of development. Some of the behaviours and values they begin forming at this stage might last a lifetime. It’s exactly the right time to introduce sustainability to shape children’s understanding of simple ideas like caring for nature, respecting resources and reducing waste.

These lessons do not need to be complex. In fact, at this age, small, consistent actions work best. For example, you can start with turning off lights, recycling materials, or caring for plants. Over time, these little everyday efforts stick and help children develop a sense of responsibility for the world around them.

Sustainability also supports broader development. It encourages curiosity, problem-solving, and empathy, all essential skills for future learning and social awareness.

Linking to the EYFS framework

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework is the expected childcare methodology for childcare for children aged 0 to 5 in the UK. Sustainability in early years settings aligns naturally with the EYFS framework. It connects with several areas of learning, including:

• Understanding the world: exploring nature, seasons and the environment
• Personal, social and emotional development: building responsibility and care for others
• Communication and language: discussing environmental changes and actions
• Physical development: engaging in outdoor and nature-based play

Weaving sustainability into everyday routines, educators are both meeting the education guidance established in the EYFS framework and establishing environmental awareness as a habit.

The educator's role in building eco-friendly habits

Early years educators are powerful role models. Children learn as much from what adults do as from what they say. You can set an example by doing simple things like reusing materials, reducing waste or choosing sustainable resources. All of these can influence children’s behaviour.

Educators can support sustainability by:

• Demonstrating eco-friendly habits in daily routines
• Encouraging children to ask questions about the environment
• Creating opportunities for hands-on learning
• Sharing positive language around caring for the planet

This approach does not require a complete overhaul of practice. Instead, it is about making thoughtful choices and building sustainability into what already happens in the nursery day.

At N, teams strive to become dreamers and changemakers, supporting both children and their families.

Practical ways to bring sustainability into the classroom

Everyday routines and resources

Small but long-term goals are what daily sustainability practices are all about.

Some practical ideas include:

• Using recycled or natural materials for arts and crafts
• Encouraging children to tidy and reuse resources
• Turning off lights and taps when not in use
• Introducing simple recycling systems in the classroom
• Choosing long-lasting, sustainable resources where possible

Through these actions, educators show children that resources are valuable. Over time, they learn how to be thoughtful and responsible in taking care of the world around them.

Outdoor and nature-based learning

Being close to nature and spending time outdoors is one of the most effective ways to teach sustainability. Nature offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

When outside, children can observe plants, insects and seasonal changes. They can take part in simple gardening activities and explore local parks and green spaces. Beyond being informative, it’s a fun way to learn about wildlife and habitats.

Outdoor learning helps children build a connection with nature. When children feel connected to the environment, they are more likely to care for it.

Sustainable snack and mealtimes

Food is another valuable opportunity to introduce sustainability in early years settings. Mealtimes can encourage healthy habits while reducing environmental impact.

When it comes to mealtimes, sustainable practices in the nursery include:

• Offering locally sourced or seasonal foods where possible
• Reducing food waste through portion awareness
• Encouraging reusable containers and water bottles
• Talking about where food comes from

These conversations help children understand the journey from farm to table. It teaches them that making thoughtful choices can be simple (and tasty!).

Engaging families beyond the nursery gates

Sustainability shouldn’t stop at the nursery door. By engaging families, positive habits extend to the environment at home and reinforce the sense of shared responsibility.

Educators can involve families in many different ways:

• Share simple eco-friendly ideas
• Encourage recycling or reuse at home
• Invite families to take part in sustainability initiatives
• Provide updates on children’s learning and activities

Working together is essential. It allows educators and families to keep the message consistent and solidify understanding of sustainability.

Building a whole-setting approach

Small steps and little, everyday changes matter. But for sustainability to have a real and lasting impact, you need a wider setting approach. It all starts with leadership and planning. That’s the way to ensure values are shared across the team.

Here are 4 steps to a whole-setting approach:

• Create a sustainability strategy or action plan
• Review resource use and energy consumption
• Encourage staff training and development
• Embed sustainable thinking into everyday decisions

In 2025, N became a certified B corp nursery, scoring 101 (well above the benchmark of 80 and more than double the average). This number reflects our commitment to people, planet and purpose. Our support extends to team members, children and families alike. Sustainability at N isn’t just a set of activities; it’s a mindset for a better future. We root all of our efforts in keeping our impact positive for both people and the planet.

Why it matters for your early years career

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important across the education sector. For early years professionals, developing knowledge and skills in this area can open new opportunities.

Working in a nursery that values sustainability allows educators to contribute to meaningful environmental change. Beyond that, being part of forward-thinking teams is a step to raising children to become responsible global citizens. If you are exploring nursery jobs, choosing a setting that prioritises sustainability can be both rewarding and inspiring.

Final thoughts: small habits, lasting change

Sustainability in early years education is about small, consistent actions. It is not about perfection, but daily routines that pay off in the long run. Every recycled resource, each outdoor exploration and the continuous conversation about the environment contribute to a bigger picture.

Nurturing eco-friendly habits from the start helps children build a positive relationship with the world around them. These early experiences can shape how they think, act and care for the environment in the future.

At N, this approach supports children to grow with curiosity, confidence and a sense of responsibility. We prepare children to make a difference in their own way.

Frequently asked questions about sustainability in early years education

Why is sustainability important in early years education?

Sustainability helps children develop awareness of the environment and encourages responsible behaviours from a young age. It also supports key areas of development, including social, emotional and cognitive skills.

How can early years educators teach sustainability to young children?

Educators can teach sustainability through simple, everyday actions: recycling, saving energy, spending time and playing outdoors, and modelling positive behaviours. Hands-on experiences and discussions make learning meaningful.

What are some simple eco-friendly activities for the nursery classroom?

Activities include gardening, using recycled materials for crafts, nature walks, sorting recycling and learning about food sources. These activities are practical, engaging and easy to implement.

How does sustainability link to the EYFS framework?

Sustainability links closely to EYFS areas (Understanding the World; Personal, Social and Emotional Development; Communication and Language). It supports children in exploring their environment and developing responsibility.