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8 schools to pilot WWF’s eco programme

SINGAPORE — Eight primary and secondary schools have signed on to a new pilot programme to become more eco-friendly, such as by reducing their water consumption and utility costs, or by cutting down on waste by engaging in recycling or reusing projects.

SINGAPORE — Eight primary and secondary schools have signed on to a new pilot programme to become more eco-friendly, such as by reducing their water consumption and utility costs, or by cutting down on waste by engaging in recycling or reusing projects.

The internationally-recognised Eco-Schools Programme was launched yesterday by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Singapore, and will focus on active citizenship and environmental sustainability as an important part of school life.

Through a seven-step framework, schools can enhance their curriculum and activities for environmental education. They will have six environmental themes to choose from, such as Water, Waste and Litter and Energy.

Under the framework, schools have to set up an Eco-Schools Committee consisting mainly of students, with teachers and adult members as advisers. The committee will have to get the school and the local community involved in Eco-Schools activities.

The programme will be expanded to pre-schools and tertiary institutions next year.

“Making the environment a priority in the school’s agenda will go a long way in growing a generation of environmentally responsible citizens empowered to make informed choices, in support of a low carbon future,” said Ms Elaine Tan, CEO of WWF Singapore.

Dr Amy Khor, Mayor of South West District, said the programme will involve six schools in the district that have consistently achieved top environmental district awards, the Green Schools Sustained Achievement Awards.

“We hope to help our Green Schools achieve a higher standard in environmental education and further empower our students to do their part to conserve, protect and make the South West a better place for all,” said Dr Khor.

Participating schools may qualify for the internationally recognised Green Flag Award by working on two themes, Climate Change and Nature and Biodiversity, and by successfully implementing the programme and improving their environmental performance. The Eco-Schools Programme in Singapore is funded by IKEA and The Silent Foundation; IKEA has pledged to donate S$200,000 from its savings from eliminating disposable plastic bags at its stores. Louisa Tang

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