San Ġwann primary's 'green' activities

This year's Green Flag awardees, St Bernadette Primary B School, San Ġwann, recently organised a week of activities focused on waste management.

Mariella Grixti from Med Ecology delivered a presentation to students explaining the five Rs of waste management and gave practical tips on managing waste effectively. She invited students to, before buying an item, ask: 'Do we really need it?' and 'Is there a more environmentally-friendly alternative?'

An exhibition was set up in the foyer on initiatives taken to manage waste effectively in Malta. Two visits were also organised: one to a farm in Manikata and another to the civil amenities in Mrieħel. The school community is very conscious about green matters. Paper use in offices is kept to a minimum and electronic mail is used frequently.

Separation of waste has been taking place for the past three years. Waste material is repeatedly used to make crafts for special occasions for competitions. Eco-wardens check proper use of electricity and ensure that the school's eco-code is being observed by all. Various 'green groups' have also sprouted at the school including the Green Fingers group, and the Nature Girls, all focusing on particular environmental aspects.