Introduction
Eco-Schools is a programme for environmental management, certification and sustainable development education for schools.
Its holistic, participatory approach and combination of learning and action make it an ideal way for schools to embark on a meaningful path to improving the environments of schools and their local communities, and of influencing the lives of young people, school staff, families, local authorities, NGOs, and all other bodies involved in this vitally important area of work.
The Eco-Schools programme was developed in 1994 on the basis of the need for involving young people in finding solutions to environmental and sustainable development challenges at the local level, as identified at the UN Conference on Environment and Development of 1992.The program was initiated by Member organisations of the Foundation for Environmental Education with the support of the European Commission.
Here in Northern Ireland, the Eco-Schools Programme is operated by TIDY Northern Ireland, an environmental charity. We receive funds from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency for Eco-Schools, as well as support from the local councils with the rest generated by private partnership.
The program is now being implemented throughout the world, there are schools in Europe, Africa, North America, South America, Oceania and Asia. The number of Eco-Schools is growing as more and more schools take up the challenge and work towards improving their environment through education and action. Forty five countries are now signed up to the Eco-Schools programme, sharing the same methodology and concept, and are identified by the Eco-Schools logo and Green Flag.
The Eco-Schools Green Flag, awarded to schools with high achievement in their programme, is a recognised and respected eco-label for environmental education and performance.
Northern Ireland is ranked sixth out of the forty five participating countries for number of Green Flag Status Schools. We were also the first country in the world to award a Green Flag to one of its schools. This was Downpatrick Nursery on 15 June 1994. This is a fantastic achievement and one that Northern Ireland can be proud of.
As a process of facilitating sustainable development in Northern Ireland, pupils are encouraged to take an active role in practical steps to reduce the environmental impact of their school. Eco-Schools thus extends learning beyond the classroom and develops responsible attitudes and commitment both at home and in the wider community.
Here in Northern Ireland, we have over 140 Green Flag Schools out of the 6000 flags awarded world wide. Of the 26,000 schools registered with the program internationally, Northern Ireland is fast approaching 600 registered schools.
This is your opportunity to join an International programme with a rapidly growing community of schools all committed to Environmental Education and Sustainable Development.