Now in its 14th year, the Green-Schools Programme in Ireland shows no sign of slowing down as 627 schools from across the country were recently awarded the coveted Green Flag. 156 schools were awarded Green Flags for the first time for their efforts in tackling litter and waste and a further 471 school successfully renewed their flags for the themes of energy conservation, water conservation, sustainable travel, biodiversity, global citizenship and climate change.
There are currently over 3,500 primary and secondary schools taking part in the programme across Ireland, and over 2,300 schools have now been awarded the Green Flag. Each of these schools is working hard to improve their environmental performance and is undoubtedly having a positive impact on their local communities and at home.
Cathy Baxter, Green-Schools manager with An Taisce, says: “An Taisce recognise and praise the continued commitment of the schools in driving the programme forward and pay tribute to the extensive efforts of the local authorities in working with schools on the ground. As students and teachers take action in their schools and wider communities, they are leading the way when it comes to tackling the environmental challenges facing Ireland today.”
The Green-Schools programme is coordinated in Ireland by An Taisce, operated in partnership with Local Authorities and is supported by the Department of Environment, Community & Local Government, Department of Transport and the National Transport Authority. The programme is sponsored by Repak, ESB Electric Ireland and the Wrigley Company.