All Aboard, students join forces with Uisce Éireann and Green Schools to become Cork’s newest Water Ambassadors

Students from across Cork City and County recently gathered to undertake Water Ambassador Training alongside staff from An Taisce's Green-Schools team, supported by Uisce Éireann. 

Over 30 students from nine different schools across County Cork gathered at the historic Nano Nagle Place in Cork City to take part in the Water Ambassador Programme, taking the first step to become champions in water conservation to bring their expertise back into their school and home lives. 

With a number of interactive workshops throughout the day, students dove headfirst into all things water. Some facts were more surprising than others to the students, as they learned on average, one person uses 133 litres of water per day and that each day 1.7 billion litres of water travels through the water network in Ireland. Also presenting to the students on the day, Clean Coasts demonstrated why we need to Think Before We Flush with their unique fatberg sculpture.

Brian O’Leary, Regional Water Operations Manager said: "We were delighted to have so many enthusiastic students wanting to increase their awareness in water conservation. The Green Schools Water Ambassador Programme is a great opportunity for the students to learn more about our water supply, how water is treated and how valuable it is. Safeguarding Ireland's water supply is a top priority for Uisce Éireann but it is not something we can do alone. Everyone can play their part through practicing simple and effective ways to conserve water."

Jennifer Cooney, Green Schools Water Officer added, ‘’We had interest from secondary school students across Ireland in becoming advocates for our most precious resource: water. At our recent training event in Cork, the Water Ambassadors delved into topics like river health, water conservation and environmental impacts of fast fashion. We at Green-Schools are excited to follow their journey as Water Ambassadors and see their ideas in motion’’

Elaine Doyle, Clean Coasts Campaigns and Development Officer spoke about the Think Before You Flush campaign, stating “The Think Before You Flush campaign was set up in response to the prevalence of sewage related litter, such as wipes and cotton buds, on Irish beaches. It is essential that the campaign engages people of all ages, so we were delighted to have the opportunity to interact with the students at the Green Schools Water Ambassador training day in Cork City. Sewage related litter affects us all and must be addressed to help protect our environment and wastewater network. Remember, only flush the 3 P’s (pee, poo, and paper). Everything else goes in the bin.”

The Green-Schools water theme is a grassroots sponsorship focused on increasing awareness and understanding of the vital role that water plays in our daily lives and water conservation through a range of activities, tailored to students at both primary level and secondary level.