Sustainability in the Early Years: An Essential Guide for Educators

Taking a practical and optimistic approach to environmental issues, this accessible text clearly explains the key concepts around sustainability and shows how sustainable habits can be embedded in early years settings. It explores the opportunities and eco-friendly practices that can be offered inside and outside in the setting and home environments, as well as in the local community.

Drawing on the authors’ extensive experience and linking to the Eco-Schools programme, the book reveals the positive impact that small changes can make to children, families, and staff. Chapters cover:

• Eco-friendly environments indoors, outdoors, and beyond

• The role of Forest Schools

• Economic sustainability

• Healthy eating and environmental sustainability

• Understanding the wider impact of our actions and the power of community

• Creating a development plan and celebrating success

Packed with fun facts, case studies and examples, tips, and reflection points, this is essential reading for all early years practitioners and students.

Zoë Raven is the founder and CEO of Acorn Early Years, a charitable social enterprise which she grew from a single nursery to an organisation which currently runs 18 day nurseries, forest schools, out-of-school and holiday clubs, training, and consultancy. The organisation has previously won the Nursery World Nursery Group of the Year and the Nursery World Eco-Friendly Early Years Award.

Santa Svike is the Sustainability & Governance Lead for Acorn Early Years. She works directly with the Eco-Lead practitioners at each of Acorn’s nurseries, to support their nursery on its sustainability journey. In 2025, Santa supported 14 of Acorn’s nurseries in achieving the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award.

Becky Watanabe is the Early Years Manager for Quality for Acorn Early Years, and is also a trainer and consultant, inspiring and supporting early years professionals to maintain high quality practice and provision.