Eco-Schools across Scotland awarded Green Flags for fantastic climate action

We are delighted to have awarded over 200 Eco-Schools across Scotland with Green Flags between July and Dec 2021. 

The international award recognises nurseries and schools which have demonstrated a commitment to the Eco-Schools Scotland programme and over two years have engaged their whole school community in local climate action. The majority of these schools and nurseries retained or regained their Green Flag status while over 15 were awarded their first ever Green Flag.

All the schools took part in a variety of fantastic litter-busting and climate action activities including litter surveys, recycling and community clean ups. Through our Eco-Schools Scotland programme, we aim to make action to tackle climate change and environmental awareness an intrinsic part of the life and ethos of schools, for both pupils and for staff. The programme provides a framework to engage the wider school community in climate action, aligned with the purposes of Curriculum for Excellence and Learning for Sustainability.

To complete the Green Flag journey each school has a choice of ten topics to engage with, from climate action to food and the environment, to litter and energy. The schools also choose one of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to link to their Eco-Schools work.

Catherine Gee, our Deputy Chief Executive, said: “I’d like to congratulate the Eco-Committee, pupils and staff at each of these schools, who have worked so hard to play their part in combatting climate change and achieve their Green Flag Award. This is particularly impressive during a time of unprecedented adjustment and change to education due to the pandemic and is testament to the resilience and creativity of both pupils and educators.

“Keep Scotland Beautiful is committed to supporting all our children, young people and educators through our climate action schools activities to develop the capacities, skills and attributes required to protect our planet and work towards our goal of a Net Zero future.”