The National Learning Network has been named winner of the Excellence in Sustainability award at the Education Awards 2026, recognised for a whole-system approach to sustainability that integrates environmental responsibility with social inclusion, demonstrating that meaningful climate action in education can deliver benefits for people and planet simultaneously.

The programme's governance structure is one of its defining strengths. A Steering Committee, Green Committee, and a network of over 70 sustainability champions across the organisation have ensured that the initiative is not driven from the top down alone but is embedded at every level, creating the conditions for consistent implementation and genuine cultural change rather than surface-level compliance.

A clear Climate Action Roadmap gives the programme strategic coherence, setting out targets and timelines that allow progress to be measured and reported with credibility. Robust public funding partnerships reinforce the initiative's alignment with national climate objectives, while strategic collaborations have extended its reach and impact beyond the organisation itself. Together, these elements have driven meaningful emissions reductions across energy, transport, and procurement.

What distinguishes the National Learning Network's submission further is its recognition that social inclusion and environmental sustainability are not separate agendas. By treating them as interconnected, the organisation has developed solutions that address both simultaneously, reflecting a depth of thinking that goes well beyond conventional green initiatives in the education sector.

Judges were clear in their assessment. "Strong governance, including a Steering Committee, Green Committee, and over 70 champions, has ensured successful implementation. With a clear Climate Action Roadmap and robust public funding partnerships, this initiative has driven meaningful emissions reductions and fostered a culture of sustainability across energy, transport, and procurement," the panel stated.

The Excellence in Sustainability award recognises Irish-based third level institutions, technical training colleges, and organisations that can best demonstrate a commitment to sustainability through reduced carbon footprints, organisational change processes, new partnerships, or the use of energy-saving methods, backed by clear evidence and measurable outcomes.

The Education Awards 2026 gala took place on 16 April at the Johnstown Estate, Enfield, Co. Meath.

For the complete 2026 winners list, category insights, and institution profiles, visit the official Education Awards website and subscribe to the newsletter for updates and insights.