We are the UK Government’s independent adviser on sustainable development. Through advocacy, advice and
appraisal, we help put sustainable development at the heart of Government policy

Case Study: Our work with DCSF

 In 2005, the SDC placed its first 'embedded' member of staff within the Department for Children, Schools and Families. The SDC adviser's role was to help policy teams within the department to better understand the impact of their policies on sustainability and, crucially, how sustainable development can make their policies more effective.

As a result of its partnership with the SDC, DCSF's approach to sustainable development has changed dramatically, and the Department now takes a leading role in Whitehall in showing how it can be integrated in policy-making.

By providing regular challenge and advice to the Department, the SDC has been instrumental in supporting the following developments:

  • The release of Climate change and schools: A carbon management strategy for the school sector , which sets out how local authorities, schools and others can radically reduce greenhouse gas emissions from schools.
  • The 2006 National Framework for Sustainable Schools, designed by the SDC with consultation driven by DCSF, has become a significant force in the schools sector (???)
  • A commitment to build only (??) zero-carbon schools from 2016
  • Strategies for child health and play, highlighting the importance of active travel and green space
  • The Sustainable Schools programme, which encourages positive sustainable behaviours in children and families
  • The formation of Young Activists, which empowers young people to make a difference in their communities.