Introducing AI for Sustainability in VET

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The SUSTaiN Starter Kit supports vocational education and training (VET) educators in understanding and applying Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a driver of sustainability and innovation.

This three-part resource package introduces the fundamental concepts of AI, showcases real examples from industries of Energy, Water, Agriculture and Transport, and provides hands-on tools that educators can use directly in their classrooms or training programmes.

Together, these resources help educators and learners explore how AI can make production and service systems more efficient, resilient, and environmentally responsible, preparing the workforce for Europe’s green and digital transitions.

What the Starter Kit Includes

Part 1 – Foundational AI & Machine Learning Overview

A beginner-friendly introduction to what AI and machine learning are, how they differ, and how systems use data, algorithms, and neural networks to learn from examples and make predictions that support decisions. It links AI to sustainability in VET (agriculture, water, energy, transport) and flags key risks and duties and the environmental footprint of AI, with practical ways to reduce it.

Part 2 – Case Study Compendium

This section presents a collection of real-world examples showing how AI is already transforming key sectors – agriculture, water management, energy, and transport.

Each case study follows a clear, three-step format:

Problem – Intervention – Outcome, allowing educators to easily translate complex technologies into practical learning discussions.

Part 3 – Digital Toolkit

The Toolkit provides a practical selection of 11 AI-powered tools and applications that educators can integrate into sustainability-focused teaching and learning.

Each tool is presented with:

A short description of its main function and developer.

The target audience and professional use cases.

Strengths, limitations, and classroom applications.

Who It’s For

The SUSTaiN Starter Kit is designed for:

VET educators, trainers, and instructors looking to embed AI and sustainability themes into their teaching.

Training providers and curriculum designers developing new courses aligned with digital and green transitions.

Educational policymakers and institutions aiming to strengthen digital readiness and AI literacy.

Industry partners and stakeholders interested in connecting training with real-world AI applications.

Why You Should Use It

Gain clear, structured knowledge about AI and its role in sustainability.

Bring real-world innovation into the classroom through practical examples and tools.

Strengthen learners’ digital and green competences for the future workforce.

Access ready-to-use materials that support lesson design and project-based learning.

Contribute to a more sustainable and future-oriented VET system in Europe.

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Get Started

Explore the three parts of the SUSTaiN Starter Kit below and begin integrating Artificial Intelligence for sustainability into your teaching practice.