'Time to save the planet is now,' say eco-pupils

20 July 2024

George KingBBC News, Suffolk

News image — School students have unveiled a new artwork designed to encourage more people to think about the future of the planet

Federation of Fairfield and Colneis School students sitting in front of their artwork — School students have unveiled a new artwork designed to encourage more people to think about the future of the planet

Eco-conscious school pupils have said “the time for talking is over” as they have unveiled a striking new mural to encourage people to protect the planet.

Children at Colneis Junior School in Suffolk have sent a strong message to both pupils and parents in the form of a new artwork called Help the Earth - There Is No Planet B.

The piece, brought to life by artist and former Cambridge School of Art lecturer Simon Loxley, portrays pollution, biodiversity loss and climate change on one side, and how the planet can be safeguarded on the other.

The idea came from the Felixstowe school’s Eco Warriors, who champion environmental issues through the school’s Eco Council, as well as art students.

The artwork in the school's playground features 13 swifts, flowers, insects and eco-friendly messages, as well as animals trapped in plastic and sewage.

The resort and port town has seen animals affected by waste in the North Sea, such as seals entangled in plastic and netting.

Federation of Fairfield and Colneis Artist Simon Oxley in front of the artwork — Artist and former Cambridge School of Art lecturer, Simon Loxley (pictured) helped bring the pupils' vision to life

It was funded by a grant from former Mayor of Felixstowe, Seamus Bennett, as well as money from the Friends of Fairfield and Colneis, which is a school fundraising committee.

Mark Girling, head teacher of the Federation of Fairfield and Colneis, said: "I am incredibly proud of the children’s efforts... thank you to Year 6 teacher Rebecca Wyard for her enthusiasm and commitment.

"We are forever grateful for the immense time, effort and talent that Simon Loxley has given us to bring this vision to reality."

Federation of Fairfield and Colneis School students with certificates — Pupils at the Felixstowe junior school were recognised for their contributions to the artwork

The artwork was officially unveiled during a special event which saw children give passionate and inspirational speeches about our responsibility to look after the planet.

Pupils addressed the whole school, as well as parents and guests, reaffirming the crucial steps that need to be taken to "achieve a world worth living in".