Green-fingered students at Ripon Grammar School in North Yorkshire have taken impressive steps to combat climate change and biodiversity loss by planting over 3,000 hedgerow trees and shrubs. In addition to the planting, the pupils have created new flower beds and wildflower areas across the school’s 23-acre site to help promote a healthier environment.
Headteacher Jonathan Webb, who is also a keen gardener, said he was delighted to have such “willing and enthusiastic” students who are passionate about nature and the environment. The pupils’ efforts are part of the school’s broader environmental initiatives to make a positive impact on the local ecosystem.
This tree-planting initiative coincided with an event organized by North Yorkshire Council and the University of Leeds, where headteachers and senior leaders from more than 30 schools across the county gathered to discuss environmental issues. The event aimed to inspire changes in school communities to promote a greener future. Hosted at Allerton Waste Recovery Park, the event featured discussions with representatives from North Yorkshire Council, National Nature Park, and the Let’s Go Zero campaign, which supports schools in achieving zero carbon by 2030.
Cllr Greg White, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for managing the environment, said: “Given issues with climate will affect us all, it is vital that young people are engaged in environmental issues and feel empowered and involved about the positive future of our planet. It’s very encouraging to see schools taking the lead and it’s truly impressive to see what children, staff, and the wider communities in North Yorkshire have been doing to help reduce their own carbon footprints and support their local environment.”
The event included activities such as an introduction to Count Your Carbon, a free carbon emissions calculator for schools, and a tour of the state-of-the-art waste treatment technology. The North Yorkshire Rotters also engaged attendees with their efforts to reduce food waste, including a fun smoothie-making activity using a “smoothie bike.”
Cllr David Hugill, North Yorkshire Council’s climate change member champion, commented: “Education plays a crucial role in tackling climate change. Pupils will grow up thinking about the effect they have on the environment and making greener choices. Events like this not only bring together school leaders but provide guidance to support climate action planning and inspire goals for making the best use of the school grounds and activities for embedding sustainability.”
In addition to the tree planting, Ripon Grammar School has introduced several other green initiatives to raise awareness of environmental issues and reduce its carbon emissions. Mr Webb said: “Trees help to remove greenhouse gases and carbon dioxide from the air, which reduces the effects of global warming. We are promoting the biodiversity of the school site through the provision of much-needed wildlife habitat and corridors while also educating our young people about the ecological and cultural value of hedgerows.”
Cllr Annabel Wilkinson, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for education, learning and skills, added: “Education empowers all people, but especially motivates the young to take action. Whether through reducing energy consumption, promoting sustainable food choices or introducing climate-focused projects, schools can play a key role and it’s great to see the good work being done here in North Yorkshire so far to address this global challenge.”
North Yorkshire Council will be hosting a follow-up online event on Tuesday, April 1, for school staff who were unable to attend the initial session. Anyone interested can book the session by emailing schoolimprovementservice@northyorks.gov.uk.
