Balloch Energy Champions aim for Green Flag Eco School Status

Pupils at Balloch Primary School, Inverness are leading the way in the combat against climate change. Members of the eco-school committee wrote to The Highland Council, for advice on how they could save energy at the school.

Following discussions with the pupils, the Council’s Housing & Property Service inspected the school and organised the installation of solar water heating panels. The panels will help the school to save energy and a reduce carbon emissions by 684kg each year.

Steve Barron, Director of Housing & Property, has warmly welcomed the school's interest in energy saving.

He said: "This is the type of support and encouragement that the Council welcomes. Energy efficiency and carbon emissions have an effect on everyone and I applaud the efforts of the children and congratulate them on taking responsibility for their environment."

The school is working towards achieving its first Eco-schools 'Green Flag', which it hopes to get by the end of this session.

Head Teacher Christine Scott said: "Energy awareness has been a big part of our Eco Schools work along with ongoing improvements to the school grounds, litter control, recycling and a gardening club. All classes in the school are involved with the support of teachers and parents."

To date, 170 Highland Schools have registered with the scheme and 13 schools have achieved Green Flag status. It is hoped that all schools will achieve an Eco Schools Green Flag by 2011. This forms part of the ongoing work of The Highland Council's Climate Change Working Group.

Councillor Drew Hendry, Chairman of the Council’s Climate Change Working Group, said: "The children at Balloch Primary School have set a great example through the enthusiasm for pursuing their idea. The energy savings they will now make will help contribute towards the council's overall target of reducing carbon emissions by 15% by 2010. It is small, but vital, actions like this that lead to success. Congratulations go to Balloch and all other energy conscious Highland schools for their efforts."

For more information on how to save energy please contact the Highland Energy Efficiency Advice Centre on: 0800 512 012.