Two schools have been awarded grants of $5,000 to launch innovative environmental projects.

Bermuda High School and Francis Patton Primary School were selected after they submitted applications to the Butterfield X Protect Our Future climate action grant.

The grant was launched by Butterfield bank in partnership with Protect Our Future, a climate education programme of the 1851 Trust, an educational charity that provides free sport-inspired STEM and climate education programmes globally.

Supported by Protect Our Future’s climate resources, the grant was designed to empower and equip young people with the knowledge to speak confidently about climate change and drive positive action with their communities.

BHS will use the grant to establish a hydroponics farming area, with plans to expand into aquaponics.

The project aims to grow produce such as lettuce, spinach and carrots, supported by a sustainable ecosystem where goldfish provide nutrients.

It will offer hands-on, cross-curricular learning opportunities in science, maths, geography, economics, art and design.

The project is aligned with BHS’s Eco Schools Green Flag status and promotes an innovative STEAM-based solution to climate challenges, while addressing several UN sustainable development goals.

Francis Patton Primary School’s Green Future Initiative engages students, staff and the community in sustainable practices to reduce carbon emissions and promote environmental stewardship.

The multifaceted project includes activities focused on reducing plastic use, alternative transportation, community clean-ups, energy conservation and a school and community garden that features a hands-on learning experience to foster healthy eating, crop cultivation and sustainability practices.

It encourages environmental responsibility, reduces waste and aligns with Francis Patton’s long-term goal of creating a sustainable future.

To celebrate their achievements, Butterfield hosted a special event that brought together the pupils, teachers and representatives of the scheme.

A Bank of Butterfield spokesman said: “We congratulate the students and teachers at BHS and the Francis Patton Primary School on their winning submissions.

“The judging panel had a difficult task with strong competition from other entrants.

“It was great to see the ideas and the engagement following the education and outreach programmes run by the Emirates GBR Sail Team, together with the 1851 Trust, during the SailGP event in May.

“We thank everyone who participated, and look forward to following the progress of the selected environmental projects.”

Protect Our Future uses the inspiration of athletes and the global community of sport to empower young people with the knowledge to take climate action and drive change.

Sir Ben Ainslie, the chief executive of Emirates GBR SailGP Team and a patron of The 1851 Trust, said: “The Butterfield X Protect Our Future climate action grant reflects our shared commitment to empowering young people to tackle global challenges.

“By equipping them with the tools and resources they need, we can help foster the next generation of climate leaders.

“We were impressed with all the applicants and thank the schools for their hard work.

“We are excited to see the winning projects develop and their legacy within the local community in Bermuda.”