Eco-School Programme at FIS
The Faculty of Information Studies in Novo mesto (FIS) joined the international Eco-School program in 2024, the world’s largest education program for sustainable development. The program is based on a 7-step methodology, the successful implementation of which leads to the acquisition of the international environmental certificate known as the “Green Flag”.
FIS received its first Green Flag in September 2024, confirming the successful implementation of sustainable activities and the involvement of students, employees, and the wider community in environmental and socially responsible projects.
Program coordination at FIS is led by Katja Uršič and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Urška Fric, together with the FIŠ Eco-Committee.
Activities Implemented in 2026
1. Charity Drive for Used Books for the Novo mesto Retirement Home (January–February 2026)
Due to the great success of last year’s campaign, the collection of used books was repeated. Students and employees gathered a large box of fiction books with larger print, which were handed over to the Novo mesto Retirement Home on February 23, 2026. This donation will help residents expand their book collection as part of their “Growing Book” project.
Activities Implemented in 2025
1. St. Nicholas’ Little Angels Charity Campaign (November 2025)
In cooperation with Young Caritas, FIŠ participated in providing gifts for children from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. Throughout November, useful, creative, and eco-friendly gifts such as school supplies, sweets, and warm clothing were collected.
2. Charity Book Collection Drive (February–April 2025)
On World Book and Copyright Day, 366 Slovene-language books were donated to the “Emona” Association of Slovenians in Ruma (Serbia) to help restore their library after a fire. The campaign received positive media coverage and encouraged new book collection initiatives.
3. Clothing Swap Event (September 2025)
As part of the Eco-School program, we organized a September clothing swap at the faculty to promote sustainable fashion and reduce textile waste. Following the “bring one – take one” principle, employees refreshed their wardrobes with high-quality pre-loved garments. The event successfully extended the lifecycle of clothing while strengthening environmental awareness and a sense of community.
Activities Implemented in 2024
1. Arrangement of a Waste Separation System (April 2024)
New internal and external containers were established for separate waste collection, including paper, plastic, biological waste, and glass
2. Cleaning Campaign for the Faculty Surroundings and Nearby City Areas (April 2024)
Students and employees cleaned the vicinity of FIS and nearby public areas, contributing to a cleaner local environment.
3. Computer Donation to Loka Črnomelj Elementary School (October 2024)
At the school’s request, 12 used computers were donated to update their equipment and improve the digital competencies of the pupils.
4. Charity Collection of School Supplies (July–August 2024)
Employees and students collected used and new school supplies for children involved in the programs of the Association for Developing Voluntary Work Novo mesto.
5. Charity Clothing Drive for Newborns (November–December 2024)
In cooperation with the Maternity Ward of the Novo mesto General Hospital, a collection of clothing for newborns was organized during the pre-holiday season.
Future and Cooperation
In the coming years, FIS will continue to develop and implement various charitable and environmental projects contributing to the sustainable development of the faculty and the wider community.
We want the Eco-School program at FIS to be lively, open, and inclusive, and therefore invite all students and employees to propose new ideas for activities or join planned projects. Please send your suggestions to ekosola@fis.unm.si.
