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During the COVID-19 pandemic, schools across the UK had to rapidly rethink how they deliver education. In-person school trips to museums, archives, and science centres were suspended indefinitely. However, rather than losing these vital enrichment experiences, schools began exploring digital alternatives.

At the same time, sustainability became a core consideration. With the UK government’s net-zero commitments and the education sector’s responsibility to lead by example, reducing carbon emissions from school activities—including travel—became essential. Experts like Dr Piet van der Zanden from TU Delft highlighted the need for green AV technologies to enable more sustainable operations in public education.

The solution: A smart AV setup #withiiyama

A primary school in Redbridge adopted a remote learning strategy by installing a 75” iiyama 4K large-format display. Using this setup in combination with conferencing tools (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet), teachers facilitated live expert-led sessions from cultural institutions across the UK.

Through this solution, pupils accessed museum exhibitions, historical archives, and STEM sessions with real-time interaction, all from the classroom. The display’s clarity and large size made it easy for an entire class of students to remain engaged and focused.

“Our large-format displays are designed to bring clarity, immersion, and interaction into every space. In education, that means enabling access to expert knowledge and enriching content—sustainably and efficiently.”

— Steve Kilroy, Sales Manager UK, iiyama

Measurable Benefits

1. Significant Carbon Emissions Reduction

By replacing three physical school trips with virtual alternatives, the school dramatically reduced its CO₂ footprint.

Across just three virtual sessions, the school achieved more than a 96% reduction in emissions. An impactful step toward UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action.

2. Cost Efficiency

Virtual learning saved not only emissions but also money. The school avoided costs associated with:

• Transport (coach or train bookings)
• Entry fees or activity charges
• Additional staff required for off-site supervision

At the same time, iiyama’s professional display, with its long lifecycle and low power consumption, offered long-term value.

3. Improved Accessibility and Engagement

With virtual learning, students gained access to institutions that may have been too far, too costly, or too complex to coordinate for a physical visit. This included live talks with archaeologists, astronauts, and historians.

The large-format iiyama display enabled clear visuals and audio for full-classroom viewing, supporting:

• Higher engagement from pupils
• Better visibility of content
• Interactive Q&A with subject-matter experts

Strategic Impact

While virtual experiences cannot replace all real-world learning, they are a powerful supplement. Digital sessions can support:

• Pre- and post-visit learning
• Curriculum enrichment in underfunded schools
• Environmental education tied to real-time data
• Inclusion of students with mobility or health limitations

“Let us not forget the power of real-life human experiences. But let’s use AV technology wisely to bridge the gaps we can’t reach physically.”

— Dr Piet van der Zanden, Delft University of Technology

Conclusion

Through iiyama’s professional display solutions, schools like those in Redbridge are pioneering a hybrid model of learning that is:

Sustainable

Cost-effective

Rich in content

Scalable across classrooms

These iiyama displays are essentially tools that help make future-ready education accessible whether in person or online.