ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at human learning as a vital ecosystem service, building on understanding of schools as living systems not factories. It explores the potential for green schools that maximizes student learning while at the same time cultivates stronger, healthier local communities and reduces the school's ecological footprint. In short, green schools have the capacity to contribute substantially to the world's most pressing challenges by both addressing those challenges through their present day practice and maximizing student learning for a lifetime love of learning. Theoretically, green schools are grounded in a living systems model of organization and schooling. Facilitating student well-being is central to green school leadership. Vibrant learning is humanity's most valuable ecosystem service. Ecosystem restoration projects require a deep understanding of the pristine, natural system. Green school leaders that ground their practice in ecological and democratic principles cultivate the conditions in which students' well-being is high and they engage more deeply in meaningful learning.
