PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY AND PUBLIC CLEANLINESS AND BY THE MINISTRY FOR EDUCATION, SPORT, YOUTH, RESEARCH AND INNOVATION

The adventures of ‘Ġuża l-Ħanfusa’ teach children about sustainable initiatives for a healthier environment

‘L-Istejjer Meraviljużi u Ribellużi ta’ Ġuża Ħanfusa’, written by Clare Azzopardi and illustrated by artist Alfie Gatt, are collected in the book

‘L-Istejjer Meraviljużi u Ribellużi ta’ Ġuża Ħanfusa’ are a series of adventures aimed at raising children’s awareness about sustainability, environmental initiatives, and climate action.

The book was presented today by the Minister for the Environment, Miriam Dalli, and the Minister for Education, Clifton Grima, during a visit to students at Sacred Heart School. 

This digital book is an initiative of the Climate Action Authority and EcoSchools (Nature Trust - FEE) and is aimed at students in Years 3 to 6. The author of the book, Clare Azzopardi, based it on ideas that the children themselves conceived. Artist Alfie Gatt’s illustrations brought these engaging stories to life.

Minister Dalli stressed that children are amongst the greatest ambassadors of actions that need to be taken in favour of sustainability.

“We promised the EcoSchools students that we would turn their ideas into something lasting that could reach as many children as possible. From here, the idea for this book was born, so that the message spreads as widely as it can,” said Minister Dalli, stressing that the educational aspect is central to the work of the Climate Action Authority. “It is work that the authority has begun very strongly and will continue to build upon across all generations. Climate action is something that requires everyone’s contribution.”

The book will be distributed in libraries across the country and will be available to everyone in digital form on the Climate Action Authority’s website.

Minister Clifton Grima said that through initiatives like this, we are providing our children with creative and educational tools that help them better understand their role in safeguarding the environment. “Our schools play a central part in shaping generations that are not only informed but also motivated to take concrete action towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.”

Climate Action Authority CEO Ing. Abigail Cutajar explained that the Authority continuously seeks to collaborate with other entities in society, and this collaboration with EcoSchools is only the beginning. “In the educational sector, there is a great potential for knowledge, information, and above all, opportunity for action. We will turn that potential into initiatives that benefit the country and the environment we live in,” said Cutajar.

For his part, Nature Trust FEE Vince Attard, on behalf of EcoSchools, said that the organisation welcomes the launch of this book, which was produced following a suggestion made by EcoSchool children to the Climate Change Authority. “This initiative continues to empower children by giving them a voice in shaping their future and encouraging them to become more responsible citizens. The aim of the EcoSchools programme is education for Sustainable Development,” he said.