Knockevin Special School wins environmental gong

Knockevin Special School wins environmental gong

22 May 2024

STUDENTS from Knockevin Special School have claimed the top prize in a prestigious all-Ireland competition.

Having opened their eco-café at their Downpatrick campus, the students claimed first prize in the Further Growth Category at the Young Environmentalist Awards 2024 last Wednesday in Dublin.

Held at the Royal Convention Centre, over 1,000 people attended the awards showcase and finals.

The group from Knockevin opened their eco-café to educate their teachers and peers on plastic food waste.

They were among 26 eco-projects to receive awards at this year’s competition.

The awards recognise the work of young people who are tackling key issues in relation to climate and biodiversity loss, taking environmental action and coming up with creative solutions to solve environmental issues.

Now in its 25th year, the Young Environmentalist Awards programme has reached people in every county in Ireland, with a total of 65,000 young people participating.

ECO-UNESCO national director, Elaine Nevin said: “Since the Young Environmentalist Awards began 25 years ago, we’ve seen the programme go from strength to strength each year. 

“I’m so impressed by the number of projects and the high standard this year from students in Down and across Ireland. 

“Our young people are the heart of the YEA programme, using their passion, creativity and dedication to make a lasting impact on their communities. 

“We have created a strong tradition of effecting environmental change over the last 25 years and I’m proud of the work that’s been done to date.”

She continued: “When we started the YEA programme, there were five awards categories, since then it has grown to 12, reflecting the sheer scale of environmental issues that impact our planet and our young people. 

“I would like to congratulate all of our awardees, acknowledge those who took part in our regional semi-finals and thank all our funders who make this all possible every year. 

“Each and every project that entered this year’s awards deserves to be celebrated. We look forward to continuing to inspire youth environmental action for the next 25 years.”