A programme that encourages students to learn about environmental sustainability has been given a $10,000 boost.

The Garden Club of Bermuda donated the cash to the Eco-Schools programme, which teaches youngsters eco-friendly practices.

The course is run by the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute and has been taken up by 16 schools and the Bermuda College.

A Garden Club spokeswoman said: “As the island is slowly coming out of the pandemic and, like the rest of the world, facing inflation, food security has become increasingly more of an issue.

“More people are turning to gardening and growing their own produce for their personal consumption. Echo-Schools is teaching our children to be more responsible, eco-friendly and self-reliant in a multitude of disciplines.”

Karla Lacey, the chief executive officer of the BUEI, said: “Student-led and action-based, Eco-Schools empowers young people to introduce sustainable practices within their school by engaging and exposing them to authentic learning experiences.

“Eco-Schools’ approach enables schools to build community while engaging in meaningful learning opportunities with academic and financial rewards.”