Schools in Limerick are getting a boost with over €850,000 in funding for sustainability and climate education. This investment comes from the Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) program and aims to support hands-on, student-driven projects that promote environmental awareness and sustainable practices.
Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton announced the funding, which will help schools across the country tackle issues like biodiversity and food waste. Local leaders, like Minister Patrick O’Donovan, praised the impact of practical climate education on students.
Several Limerick schools are among those approved for grants. Fedamore CNS has received €2,000 to create raised beds for growing fruits and vegetables, introduce pollinator-friendly plants, and install a polytunnel. Glenbrohane National School will use its €2,000 grant to upgrade its school garden, making outdoor learning more accessible.
Knocklong National School is set to develop a Students’ Voice app with its €2,500 grant to enhance school meals and cut down on food waste. Murroe National School has also secured €2,500, which will be spent on improving its outdoor space and promoting biodiversity. Additionally, Scoil Naomh Mhuire aims to create an outdoor learning area with native trees, backed by €2,500 in funding.
Coláiste Chiaráin Croom will focus on its “Our River, Our Future” project with a €2,500 grant, while Coláiste Íosaef in Kilmallock will use its €2,500 to set up a biodigester for better food waste management.
This funding initiative is part of the Government’s ESD to 2030 strategy. This strategy empowers young people to take action on climate change in their communities. By focusing on hands-on projects, it teaches students about real-world environmental challenges.
Involving students in these local projects helps them gain practical skills and a deeper understanding of environmental responsibility. As highlighted in the latest survey from the International Society for Sustainability in Education, nearly 70% of students believe sustainability education is crucial for their future.
The positive reactions from both students and educators indicate that these initiatives not only foster environmental stewardship but also create a sense of community. As more schools embark on these projects, we can expect a ripple effect of awareness and action throughout Limerick and beyond.
For detailed insights into similar initiatives, you can refer to the Irish Government’s ESD Strategy.
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Patrick O’Donovan,Limerick City and County Council,Education
