As the days get darker and chillier, it's tempting to stay indoors or in our cars until the last possible second. However, the shorter days will be with us for a while, so it's best to get into healthy habits in place now to last us through the winter months.
To encourage kids and parents to get out into the fresh air, Green-Schools Walk to School Week (WTSW) will take place next week, starting on Monday, October 2.
This year's event celebrates walking, active transport, and sustainable solutions to congestion outside schools around Ireland.
Working in partnership with just under 500 schools, Green-Schools Travel Officers will be busy supporting communities, providing them with the tools to change habits and create a school environment that is accessible and enjoyable for all.
For example, this week a webinar on Walking Buses hosted by Green-Schools gave attendees ideas and information focused on creating walking buses in their schools.
Walking the full distance to school is not always possible depending on location, so a Park’n’Stride alternative is also encouraged.
Organisers are keen to remind everyone that WTSW is a group effort that relies on everyone getting involved. With so many people walking, drivers are reminded to be mindful of speeding, idling engines, or footpath parking.
A recent report by the EPA has highlighted the impact of poor air quality on urban communities, while the Green-Schools Speedweek report in 2021 made clear how few people adhere to speed limits outside schools in Ireland.
Speaking on the initiative, Ciara Norton, the Manager of the Green-Schools Travel Programme, said:
"We know that walking to school means families can spend precious time together each morning, that young people can practise independence and chat with their friends and that front of school environments where more people are arriving by an active mode are happier, healthier ones. But we need everyone’s help!
"Slow down, particularly outside schools; park responsibly, being mindful of young people and those with accessibility requirements; and turn off your engine when parked to protect young lungs and the air we all breathe."
The Green-Schools Travel theme is funded by the Department of Transport and supported by the National Transport Authority. www.greenschoolsireland.org
