Green Schools: Empowering Environmental Action, One Step at a Time
At Killorglin Community College, we believe that creating a sustainable future starts with the choices we make today. Our Green-Schools Committee is a student-led group committed to making our school more environmentally friendly and inspiring change across the wider community.
We are proud to be part of the Green-Schools Programme — Ireland’s leading environmental education initiative run by An Taisce in partnership with the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications.
What We Do
Our Green-Schools team meets regularly to plan, organise, and lead a wide range of sustainability-focused initiatives across the school. This includes:
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Waste reduction and recycling campaigns
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Energy-saving drives and awareness events
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Litter clean-ups around the school and local area
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Biodiversity projects, including planting and pollinator-friendly spaces
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Water conservation efforts
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Promoting sustainable travel such as walking, cycling, and carpooling
These projects are not just educational — they empower students to take ownership of their environment and lead meaningful action.
Why It Matters
The Green-Schools programme helps students to:
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Develop a deeper understanding of climate change and sustainability
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Build leadership, teamwork, and project management skills
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Make a tangible difference in their school and local environment
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Feel a sense of pride and purpose in protecting our planet
Each year, the team sets goals aligned with a Green-Schools theme (e.g. Waste, Water, Energy, Global Citizenship) and works toward earning the programme’s prestigious Green Flag Award.
Our Green Achievements
Killorglin Community College has already made great strides in our Green-Schools journey, including:
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Drastically reducing general waste across campus
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Introducing clearer recycling systems and signage
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Planting native species to support local biodiversity
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Hosting awareness weeks tied to Earth Day, Climate Action Week, and Tree Week
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Running school-wide competitions to promote climate literacy and eco-friendly habits
We’re not just ticking boxes — we’re building a culture of environmental responsibility from First Year to Sixth.
Led by Students, Supported by All
Our Green-Schools committee is made up of students from across the school who are passionate about climate action and sustainability. They are supported by a dedicated teacher coordinator and collaborate with staff, management, and external agencies to make change happen.
Like all of our student-led initiatives at KCC, the Green-Schools programme gives young people a voice, a platform, and real influence — living proof of our commitment to inclusion and active citizenship.