CarbonKids Schools pilot programme

AUSTRALIA – Canberra school students have been planting trees, measuring greenhouse gases and learning about solar power as part of a CSIRO programme to help them reduce the carbon footprint of their schools.

More than a dozen schools in Canberra together with schools in NSW and WA are taking part in the CarbonKids Schools Pilot Program.

Initiated by CSIRO and supported by Shell Australia, CarbonKids involves students in hands-on projects that combine the latest science with sustainability education.

Richard Marles, Parliamentary Secretary for Innovation and Industry, said the programme helped school communities understand climate change and take positive steps to foster environmental sustainability.

“The CarbonKids Schools Pilot Program recognises and promotes the fundamental role that young Australians will play in tackling climate change and protecting the environment in the years to come.”

Mr Marles said the schools have been taking simple, cost-effective steps to ensure a cleaner and brighter future.

“I’ve been very interested to see the work they have done to reduce the carbon footprints at their schools and the behavioural changes they are instilling in their families, friends and the broader community.”