Schools hit nature trail

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Five UAE schools have been recognised for their eco-efforts by gaining Green Flag status, an internationally recognised environmental award.

By Staff Reporter

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Published: Tue 22 May 2012, 9:34 AM

Last updated: Tue 12 Oct 2021, 5:15 PM

Emirates Wildlife Society, in association with WWF and HSBC Bank Middle East, made the announcement on Sunday.

The five recognised schools are Greenwood International School in Dubai; Al Hala Basic Cycle School for Boys in Fujairah; Raffles International School, West Campus, in Dubai; Adhen Basic Cycle School for Girls in Ras Al Khaimah; and Dubai International Academy.

The schools were given Green Flag status for successfully taking part and implementing the HSBC Eco-Schools Climate Initiative. All five were awarded at an event in Dubai on Sunday.

The students worked with teachers and parents through action-oriented activities by engaging their whole school to take practical steps to lower their electricity and water consumption and waste generation.

Ida Tillisch, Acting Director General of Emirates Wildlife Society-WWF, said: “It’s really important for us to involve youngsters as ambassadors and active partners in environmental education. Taking good care of our planet by taking sustainable living choices is a key message of Eco-Schools, which is a practical yet engaging way to elevate their interest in environmental issues. Working closely with volunteers from HSBC and teachers from participating schools, we are equipping students with environmental awareness and enabling them to take action to conserve our country’s natural environment for generations to come.”

Ammar Shams, Head of Corporate Sustainability, HSBC Bank Middle East Ltd, said: “Our volunteers have been extremely impressed by the dedication of the school students. From forming an Eco-Schools committee and drawing up an action plan to involving the wider community, pupils participating in the initiative have the opportunity to directly influence environmental savings made in their schools.”

The HSBC Eco-Schools Climate Initiative is part of the worldwide Eco-Schools programme by the Foundation of Environmental Education. In the UAE, where 30 schools take part in the programme, it is supported by the Ministry of Education and coordinated by EWS-WWF. Eco-Schools are designed to educate and empower students on environmental issues and targets the next generation while positioning youngsters as active contributors.

news@khaleejtimes.com


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