WEE COUNTY school pupils have recently undertaken a number of approaches as they look to help the fight against climate change.

Students across the area have been approaching the battle in a variety of different ways including forming eco-committees, increasing recycling and are being encouraged to look at the issue through their learning.

An increasing number of Clacks schools currently have or are in the process of working towards gaining their eco-schools Green Flag award through Keep Scotland Beautiful.

So far, two secondary schools – Lornshill and Alloa – along with five primary schools and the secondary support service have gained the award, with others currently in the process.

In order to gain this status schools must meet seven criteria which include forming an action plan based on an environmental review that is carried out by the young people and creating an eco-code for their school.

They track their progress against their action plan and measure any changes that have been made as a result.

One of the common themes in all schools is tackling litter by increasing the recycling of paper, plastics and food.

Students at Lornshill Academy has been increasing their recycling for items such as crisp packets by introducing a TerraCycle drop off point for the public and are introducing metal water bottles and straws.

Lornshill Academy also has the benefit of having two UN Climate Change accredited teachers to support the work of their Eco-Committee.

Alloa Academy has also introduced more recycling bins in its social spaces to make recycling easier and young people in S1 have the opportunity to take part in an eco-day which is an annual experience that focusses on analysing carbon footprints and the effect of human activity on climate change.

Banchory Primary School has a newly appointed junior leadership team that has an eco-Schools focus called the eco-warriors.

This team is currently writing its action plan for working towards gaining the school’s Green Flag status. As well as this, pupils at the school are being encouraged to walk or park and stride to school.

The issues surrounding climate change are also being explored in our early years establishments. Sauchie Nursery carries out regular litter picks and children are encouraged to recycle after eating snacks and lunch.

Children have the opportunity to grow their own produce that they can take home and through this are encouraged to consider the transport and carbon implications of buying food from further away.