Vides izglītības fonds (VIF) was founded to promote sustainable development through environmental education. VIF is the Latvian National Operator of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE International) programmes. FEE International is the world’s leading organization for environmental education and VIF successfully coordinates the work and development of all FEE International programmes and certifications (EcoSchools, Young Reporters for the Environment, Blue Flag, Green Key and Learning About Forests) in Latvia since 1998. Each of these programmes within their domains are among the most visible public initiatives in Latvia.
Vides izglītības fonds project examples:
- The We Eat Responsibly project from 2015 to 2018 that was implemented in nine EU countries with financial support of the European Union. We
Eat Responsibly objectives were: (i) education for sustainable development; (ii) active students exploring the connection between global and local
topics; (iii) active teachers empowering society to become active world citizens; (iv) involvement of local community; (v) sharing inspirations; (vi)
publish methodology, lessons and publication materials on how our food changes the world. - International educational campaign ‘The Great Plant Hunt’ (2016 to 2020) was implemented in 14 countries.. Number of educational materials, activities on biodiversity loss (also impact of climate change) for schools were prepared and promoted. The campaign promoted critical thinking by “go and see” study approach (learning by doing) and developed young people as advocates for conservation.
- Pilot project Eco-Schools Project for Advancing Circular Economy (2020-2021). Project objectives: Develop a curricular framework for school education on circular economy; develop exemplary educational kit on circular economy; training of teachers on teaching circular economy through the framework of project-based learning; raise awareness amongst stakeholders and an understanding of circular economy and principles of sustainability.
- From Autumn 2018 to Autumn 2020 VIF was taken part in the Erasmus + project – Hob’s Adventure – Hands-on Biodiversity. The project introduced children to the following topics through the overarching theme of the biodiversity of potted plants and outdoor environments: global citizenship, climate change, reasonable consumption of goods, diversity in nature, the needs of plants and animals, health and welfare.