Scheme to have 'green' schools

The Malta Environment and Planning Authority together with the Curriculum Department of the Education Division yesterday launched the Eco Schools programme on a national level.

The programme was successfully piloted in six schools over the past scholastic year. The schools taking part were the primary schools of St Julian's, Xaghra, Fgura and Siggiewi, St Joseph Blata l-Bajda and St Edward's College.

Eco schools seek to raise environmental awareness and to promote sustainable development in the classroom, at home and in the wider community.

"Maltese children will now get the opportunity they deserve to take over responsibility for caring and learning about their environment," Godwin Cassar, Mepa's director-general said.

"As from the next scholastic year, schools will be able to compete for the Green Flag, an international Eco label awarded for excellence.

"Every day should be Environment Day at our Eco schools," he said.