Lumen Christi College in Derry~Londonderry, is the latest Operation Energy school to receive the internationally recognised ‘Green Flag’ from Eco Schools Northern Ireland which acknowledges the work undertaken in schools to promote sustainable living.
The Derry~Londonderry based secondary school is one of over 280 schools currently taking part in Airtricity’s Operation Energy programme and one of 191 Green Flag schools from across Northern Ireland.
Pat Tierney, Renewables Project Manager from Airtricity, the main sponsors of the Eco-Schools NI programme and Paul Johnston, Eco-Schools Project Officer for Tidy NI, were on hand to present the prized Green Flag to the enthusiastic pupils and Lumen Christi Eco-Coordinator, Miss Diffley.
Pat Tierney explained why Airtricity is pleased to partner the Eco-Schools initiative.
“At Airtricity we are passionate about the role schools can play in promoting sustainable living through education. Energy efficiency and renewable energy are important lessons for pupils and we find that children can be the strongest advocate in households for an environmentally friendly approach to everyday living. The kids at Lumen Christi were very enthusiastic and they are worthy recipients of the Green Flag.”
“Schools can lead the way in setting a sustainable agenda. On 7 November, as part of the Eco-Schools World Day of Action, Operation Energy will promote a special ‘power down’ day where schools make an extra effort to reduce their energy usage – that is a lesson which all of us should take on board.”
Paul Johnston, Eco-Schools Project Officer, added: “We are providing practical help to schools as they learn more about energy and progress with their Eco-Schools Programme. It is wonderful to see schools like Lumen Christi getting involved and making real efforts to save energy, money and the environment. The staff and pupils of all our Eco-Schools can be proud of their efforts.”
Miss Diffley added 'The Eco-Schools programme is a fantastic initiative and all our pupils are thrilled to be receiving their 2nd Green Flag. Over the last 12 months our Eco-Council really focused on the topics of Energy, Waste and Healthy Living.’