#GenerationRestoration Schools in Action: United States
How Eco-Schools and LEAF Inspired a Restoration Journey
"If we want more species to live at Carver, we have to plant more native plants."
At Dr. G.W. Carver Upper Elementary School in Georgia, USA, a journey that began through the Eco-Schools and LEAF (Learning About Forests) programmes has evolved into a powerful example of #GenerationRestoration Schools in action.
As part of their Eco-Schools Green Flag work, students began documenting biodiversity across their 50-acre campus. Equipped with field journals and iPads, they explored forests, wetlands within their school grounds, recording more than 200 species in a single year.
Their findings inspired the creation of the Seeds of Stewardship, a student-led restoration initiative built around two core goals: connecting children with nature and increasing biodiversity on campus.
Embedded into the regular school day, the initiative ensures that every student, regardless of background, can participate in authentic environmental science and stewardship. Through habitat restoration, native seed collection, invasive species removal, wildlife monitoring, and biodiversity surveys, more than 680 students are actively contributing to ecosystem restoration on their school grounds.
By restoring native habitats and creating space for more species to thrive, the students are bringing the goals of #GenerationRestoration Schools to life. It is also a powerful example of how FEE programmes can complement one another, inspiring schools to adopt outdoor, hands-on learning approaches that not only deepen students' connection with nature but also create tangible benefits for local ecosystems.
As part of the #GenerationRestoration Schools movement, this project highlights how schools can empower young people to move beyond learning about environmental challenges and become active participants in restoring nature.
Is your school helping restore ecosystems, strengthen biodiversity, or inspire environmental action?
Join a growing global community of schools taking meaningful action for healthier ecosystems, more resilient communities, and a sustainable future.