01 July 2011

Schools Can Reduce Utility Bills Through Environmental Studies
SIBU, July 1 (Bernama) -- Environmental protection and conservation studies can help schools to cut down on their monthly utility bills.

According to state Minister of Environment and Public Health Datuk Sri Wong Soon Koh, studies had shown that once students are aware of their roles to protect and conserve the environment, they would be less inclined to be wasteful in their daily habits.

"They will avoid wasting water and be less inclined to use electrical appliances. Thus, savings will be made in the monthly utility bills," he said when officiating at a three-day workshop on Sustainable School-Environmental Awards And Environmental Studies Programme 2011 attended by 40 teachers from the town and Miri here today.

His text of speech was read by Peter Sawal, the Controller of the state Natural Resources and Environmental Board (NREB).

Wong said besides, the students too could do well in subjects such as biology, ecology or geography as the relevant aspects would be covered under the programme.

He was glad to note that many schools too, as a result of participating in it, had been active in their greening activities.

"This definitely augurs well for the security, health and well being of the students in their schools. Most important, they are being trained to look after and protect the environment for their own and the future generation's benefits," he said.

Meanwhile, Ismail Ithnin, the director of the state Department of Environment said the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment had wanted more schools in the state to participate in the programme this year.

"Together with the ministry, Sarawak Shell Berhad, NREB and others, we are targeting for each of the 71 parliamentary constituencies to propose at least four secondary or primary schools.

"We are also trying to get 130 schools statewide to participate in the Sustainable School Environmental Awards next year," he said.

Sarawak Shell Berhad through its Corporate Affairs head Wilson Saing presented its donation of RM20,000 to Ismail to carry out activities under the programme

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