LIFE AT HIF / SUSTAINABILITY
The Sustainability Group is an initiative for students who want to actively engage in environmental responsibility, cultural awareness and real-world impact. It connects global experiences, such as the annual service and sustainability trip to India with meaningful local projects in Switzerland.
Practical, collaborative and forward-looking, the programme encourages students to develop solutions that support both the planet and local communities.
Future projects include a public event with a presentation on foodwaste, a clothes swap and a charity dinner.
Global experience: India Expedition
Every year, selected students travel to India to participate in sustainability and community-development projects.
The Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE) is an organization that works with remote communities in the Himalayas to bring sustainable energy, support local development, and promote climate-conscious tourism. They focus on real, hands-on impact—like installing solar grids, supporting education, and helping villages create long-lasting, eco-friendly solutions.
Our sustainability group is incredibly grateful and excited to be part of the GHE program in 2026. Being able to join their work, learn directly from local communities, and contribute to a project that truly matters feels like an amazing opportunity for all of us.
Learning through action
Throughout the programme, students gain hands-on experience with sustainability, social responsibility and environmental action through a wide range of ongoing initiatives in and around the school community. Guided by teachers and in collaboration with local and international partner organisations, they participate in activities such as:
- Tree planting projects
- Participation in the Longevity Forum
- Participation in the Villars Symposium
- Waste-reduction programmes and recycling campaigns
- Local environmental clean-ups
- Collaboration with Swiss ecological organisations
- Awareness events on climate, energy and biodiversity
- School-based sustainability audits and improvement proposals
These experiences strengthen students’ development of:
- Understanding of sustainability in a local and global context
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Communication and presentation skills
- Environmental awareness and social responsibility
- Ability to analyse real-world challenges and propose practical solutions
All activities are supported by reflection sessions, project planning workshops and student-led presentations. This integrated approach helps students deepen their understanding, take initiative and develop long-term skills in leadership, critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving.
Local sustainability projects
Working in teams, students design and implement practical solutions that contribute to a greener school environment and a more conscious daily life.
Skills and competencies
Participation in the Sustainability Group fosters:
- Active citizenship and responsibility
- Problem-solving and project management
- Scientific and environmental literacy
- Creativity and innovation
- Communication and teamwork
- Confidence in initiating change
