15^th October 2009

The word WOW has a double meaning in Knocklyon. To the staff and pupils at St. Columcille’s Senior National School in Knocklyon WOW means Walk on Wednesday, but passersby will exclaim - WOW St. Columcille’s SNS has four green flags” so said Mayor Mick Duff as the school raised its fourth green flag for Travel on Tuesday the 13^th of October.

Pupils and staff at the school have achieved their fourth green flag for Travel by implementing an environmentally friendly travel programme at the school. Green travel methods used by pupils and teachers at this school include WOW days (Walk on Wednesday), cycling to school and park ‘n’ stride. By leaving the car at home they are contributing to a cleaner environment while also getting fresh air and exercise before the school day starts. Bicycle racks at the school are full everyday and less traffic congestion at the school gates makes a cleaner, safer environment for all. “Pupils and teachers at St. Columcille’s are as passionate about the environment as when they first started the programme 10 years ago. Recycling, litter picking, energy and water conservation is at the forefront of daily life at the school, I would like to congratulate them on the achievement of their fourth green flag” said Claire Hinch Assistant Environmental Awareness Officer with South Dublin County Council.

Over 3,100 primary, secondary and special schools in Ireland are currently taking part in the programme and 1,465 have been awarded the Green Flag. The Irish Green-Schools programme is one of the most successful within the international network. One of the main factors in the success of the Irish Green-Schools programme is the partnership between the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce and Local Authorities i.e. the financial and time contribution of the Local Authorities to the programme.

For further information contact Claire Hinch, Environmental Awareness Section

chinch@sdublincoco.ie