Green Schools

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What is Green-Schools?

Green-Schools, known internationally as Eco-Schools, is an international environmental education programme, environmental management system and award scheme that promotes and acknowledges long-term, whole school action for the environment. For further information check out the international co-ordination website click here

Who operates Green-Schools in Ireland?

Green-Schools in Ireland is operated and coordinated by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce (FEE member for Ireland), in partnership with Local Authorities throughout the country, is supported by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, the Department of Transport and is sponsored by Repak, ESB Independent Energy and the Wrigley Company Ltd. For more information on Green-Schools in Ireland click here.

St. Patrick’s N.S. Green-Schools Programme

We at St Patrick’s have a very active environmental policy.  This great venture was started back in 2004 by Mrs. Maguire.  We are very proud of the work our staff and pupils have done to foster a respect for the environment and the need to look after it.  In response to our hard work and dedication we have been awarded seven green flags to date:

1. Litter and Waste
2. Water Conservation
3. Energy Conservation
4. Transport
5. Biodiversity
6. Global Citizenship
7. Global Energy

We are currently working towards our 8^th Flag ‘Global Citizenship – Marine Life’.

We take part in National Spring Clean Initiative– Ireland’s premier anti-litter campaign. The campaign takes place during the entire month of April and encourages members from every sector of society to organise and actively participate in a clean up event. For more information on National Spring Clean check out www.nationalspringclean.org

Benefits and Requirements of Green-Schools:

1. An opportunity to help develop students’ decision-making skills;
2. An opportunity to build students’ confidence and sense of citizenship through participation;
3. Curriculum materials and ideas for projects and events;
4. Access to a network of support agencies;
5. Links with other schools in Ireland and internationally;
6. A prestigious and internationally recognised award;
7. Opportunities for local and national publicity;
8. Potential for financial savings;
9. Reduction of waste and litter, reduced energy and water consumption levels;
10. Improved school environment;
11. Opportunity to involve the local community.

It requires:

1. The support of the Principal and Board of Management;
2. A willingness to involve children in decision-making and action at every stage;
3. Active involvement of staff;
4. A willingness to take action to instigate long-term change.

If you have any questions about green schools please visit the national greenschools website