Search for eco-friendly schools starts

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) announced the opening of the 2013 National Search for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Schools for all elementary and high schools, as well as colleges and universities, whether public or private.

Interested schools may now start submitting the documentation of their eco-friendly programs and activities until March 15, 2013.

DENR Secretary Ramon Paje said the eco-friendly schools program, launched in 2009 and 2011, has generated positive responses from the schools which paved the way for the next wave of the competition in 2013.

“We intend to have the awarding of the search next year instead of this year to allow schools more time to prepare and to enhance their existing eco-friendly programs. We are hoping to encourage more schools to participate and take part in heightening environmental awareness among our youth,” he said.

The DENR said participating schools must register on-line at www.sustainableschools.ph and submit their entry in three hard copies to their respective DepEd Division Offices for elementary and high school categories, and to EMB Regional Offices for the higher education/college category. The minimum requirement for judging will be the hard copies.