By Vanessa Kirby
New research has been carried out to see how a Pudsey 11-year-old’s dream of a world without litter could be achieved.
Fundraising campaign Matilda’s Legacy was set up to honour Matilda Pritchard, who passionately cared for the environment but who tragically died in her sleep last April.
She had an undiagnosed heart condition called arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, which affects one in 1,000 people.
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Research carried out by the Matilda’s Legacy campaign found education was the obvious solution, with 99% of UK respondents believing that children should be taught about the impact of litter at school. And 85% believe that the younger education starts, the better, with infants school being the main age group chosen.
Additionally, 85% of the respondents believe that the wider climate change topic should be taught in all schools. This was considered more ideal for older children, with 34% of respondents saying that it should be taught within primary/junior schools.
Steve Pritchard, Matilda’s father and campaign manager, said: “Matilda loved learning about the environment and making a difference to her local community through regular litter picks.
“This campaign looks to honour her passion and hopefully inspire future generations to be just as passionate.”
The campaign is looking to raise £42,000 to fund five years of sponsorship of the Litter topic for Eco-Schools England, this represents the years at secondary school Matilda should have experienced. The total raised currently stands at more than £30,000.
Adam Flint, National Manager, Eco-Schools England, added: “Young people aren’t just concerned about climate change—they’re demanding the knowledge and tools to fight it. Pupils working on Eco-Schools have demonstrated this for more than 30 years.
“Litter and waste are a key part of this drive. Litter-picking, recycling and reducing our waste are day to day things we can do to take action, but it all starts with increased knowledge. Covering this in the classroom is vital.”
- You can support Matilda’s cause by visiting matildaslegacy.com for more information on this report and to donate.
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