Awards recognise work towards sustainability

Sustainability is a part of everyday school life for seven Bay of Plenty enviroschools. The schools have all been recognised with Enviroschools Awards by Environment Bay of Plenty.

Rotorua Intermediate School, Waiotahe Valley School, Te Akau ki Papamoa, Sunset Primary and Kaitao Middle School have all received silver awards, with Ohope Beach and Rangitaiki Independent School receiving bronze awards. The presentation took place at Environment Bay of Plenty's Operations Committee meeting on Thursday 15 February 2007.

The Enviroschools Awards are a way of recognising the schools that are reaching for excellence and are actively involved in environmental education. These schools have a strong student group who identify areas or issues of concern, explore what other options they could have and then take action to improve the situation. Students then reflect on the changes they have made and consider whether they can do even better. They are always looking for the next step.

The Regional Council sponsors the Enviroschools programme in the Bay of Plenty. It is coordinated by Council’s Education for sustainability team.

Operations committee chairman Bill Cleghorn says the dedication of the students and the results they've achieved has been incredible to see.

"It's great to know that when these students become adults they'll have the knowledge and practical experience necessary for a sustainable future. I'm confident it will be in capable hands."

Education for sustainability coordinator Kerry Gosling says some of the projects that students have produced have been awesome.

"Some students have really started thinking about their actions, realising that it's not enough just to recycle and that we need to be reducing our waste. They've got zero waste schools, no dig gardens, great community partnerships and a real commitment to the programme."

ENDS

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