I’ve seen amazing transformations when lessons are moved outdoors. The natural world provides such a dynamic, multi-sensory learning environment. We used a local park for a biodiversity mapping project—students were far more engaged and retained the concepts longer than in traditional settings. Has anyone else created ‘classrooms without walls’? What worked well, and what challenges did you face?

We recently facilitated a workshop where students created nature posters using leaves, stones, and flowers to explore patterns in ecosystems. It sparked discussions about interdependence in nature and how design mimics natural forms. Art can be such a powerful tool to deepen ecological understanding. It would love to hear about other creative methods you’ve used?

One of the most creative ways I taught nature-based solutions was by turning students into "eco-investigators." We designed a simulation where they explored their school grounds or local park as detectives looking for "clues". It involved identifying signs of water management, biodiversity, natural cooling, and so on. They then worked in groups to propose improvements using NBS principles, like green roofs or rain gardens. What made it special was how students used storytelling to present their solutions—as comic strips, short films, or interactive maps. It combined creativity, systems thinking, and real-world application in a way that really stuck with them. I’d love to hear how others have blended creativity and NBS.

One of the most creative ways I’ve taught nature-based solutions (NBS) was through an immersive activity at the Tower of San Gemiliano, transformed for the occasion into a fascinating “ecological treasure hunt.” Students explored the tower and the surrounding landscape by following historical and environmental clues. Each stop was inspired by architectural and defensive elements of the tower—such as the elevated entrance or the communication methods between towers—reinterpreted through a sustainable lens to identify nature-based protection strategies suitable for the local environment.At the end of the journey, students completed a crossword puzzle, earning the title of Guardians of the Tower. They engaged in storytelling and role-playing activities, working to promote the tower and its surroundings—first through creative learning, then by becoming guides for adults and tourists.The experience left a positive and lasting impact on many students (10 classes participated). They felt like true guardians and caretakers of the tower and the surrounding territory. What was once a neglected area is now being revitalized, thanks to the efforts of these young Eco-Guides. It is gradually transforming into an ecological park.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MPgPqoxFxzwv_ZTyfv0euO5hx8GCslnPLdmd5264uI4/edit?usp=sharing

link scheda https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MPgPqoxFxzwv_ZTyfv0euO5hx8GCslnPLdmd5264uI4/edit?tab=t.0
One of the most creative ways I’ve taught nature-based solutions (NBS) was through an immersive activity at the Tower of San Gemiliano, transformed for the occasion into a fascinating “ecological treasure hunt.” Students explored the tower and the surrounding landscape by following historical and environmental clues. Each stop was inspired by architectural and defensive elements of the tower—such as the elevated entrance or the communication methods between towers—reinterpreted through a sustainable lens to identify nature-based protection strategies suitable for the local environment.At the end of the journey, students completed a crossword puzzle, earning the title of Guardians of the Tower. They engaged in storytelling and role-playing activities, working to promote the tower and its surroundings—first through creative learning, then by becoming guides for adults and tourists.The experience left a positive and lasting impact on many students (10 classes participated). They felt like true guardians and caretakers of the tower and the surrounding territory. What was once a neglected area is now being revitalized, thanks to the efforts of these young Eco-Guides. It is gradually transforming into an ecological park.

During an environmental activity in a lagoon area near the Torre di San Geminiano, a class took part in a creative workshop aboard a barge on the lagoon. The children were asked to create a drawing of the Tower using only natural colors, extracted from plants and minerals found in the local area. The result was a collection of fully eco-friendly artistic works.The workshop began with a simple yet thought-provoking question:
"There’s an important person who would like a painting of the Torre di San Geminiano in Tortolì, but you don’t have any paints—what do you do?"
From this challenge, a journey of discovery unfolded, combining art, chemistry, and environmental sustainability. The students learned that nature offers valid alternatives to industrial chemical pigments, and they came to understand the origins of colors and their deep connection to the surrounding environment.Through play, creativity, and teamwork, the students were able to actively apply Nature-Based Solutions (NBS), experiencing them not just in theory but in practice. In doing so, they became active participants in the care and appreciation of their local territory, while also developing critical thinking, curiosity, and problem-solving skills.