Over the past academic year, Zero Carbon Harrogate's Walk to School and Car Free Friday campaigns have achieved remarkable success, engaging more than 16,000 students from 47 local schools across Boroughbridge, Harrogate, Knaresborough, Nidderdale, and Ripon. This collective effort has significantly reduced carbon footprints and made a positive impact on both the environment and student health.
The Walk to School campaign, supported by Zero Carbon Harrogate, Ripon Together volunteers, local sustainability company Flotilla, and various local officials, has been a major hit. Events were often enlivened by Harrogate Town AFC’s Harry Gator mascot and North Yorkshire Council’s Spike the Road Safety Hedgehog, who added excitement and motivation for the students.
Students from Birstwith CE Primary School expressed their enthusiasm, noting the health benefits and environmental impact of walking to school. Comments like, “It is good for the environment and global warming because most cars are petrol or diesel, and this causes pollution,” reflect the positive reception from the participants.
The Car Free Friday’s campaign has expanded significantly, with almost all secondary schools in Harrogate and Harrogate College participating. The Harrogate Bus Company supported the initiative by offering 2-for-1 tickets on Fridays, encouraging local commuters to join the movement.
To honour the achievements, schools and colleges were awarded certificates based on their participation. This year, 27 schools achieved Gold status by participating in at least five of the six events, up from 23 last year. Two schools received Silver, and 14 earned Bronze.
Fiona Jones reflected on the campaigns’ success: “Since the campaigns began in June 2021, they have grown from strength to strength. It’s been a wonderful way to unite our local communities through positive climate action.” She also announced that Zero Carbon Harrogate is seeking more Event Coordinators to help expand these impactful campaigns.
Congratulations to all involved!
