Car use in Waterford town decreases by 40% as local students walk to school

A walking initiative undertaken by a school in County Waterford has been hailed a resounding success. Launched by Ardscoil na Mara secondary school in Tramore in 2023, the Active Travel Stride to School initiative encourages its students to walk or cycle to school, reducing reliance on cars and helping to create a safer, greener community.

So far, the school has recorded a 40% decrease in the number of students travelling by car, significantly helping to reduce carbon emissions in the local area.

Establishing the Stride to School initiative was the collaborative effort of former Deputy Principal Ann Hennebry, Sustainability Lead Patrick Kirwan, Wellbeing Coordinator Anthony Widger, the Student Council and the TY Environmental Leadership Team.

The school secured funding from Sanofi for the TY Environmental Leadership Development Programme and allocated a portion of this funding to hire a coordinator, Frances Fitzgerald, to manage the Stride to School initiative.

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Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Jason Murphy has applauded the “incredible difference” the initiative is making in the community.

“The Stride to School initiative is promoting active travel, and it aligns perfectly with our goals for a healthier, more sustainable Tramore. It’s wonderful to see so many students embrace walking and cycling, not just for the environment, but for the health of our children. We are creating a community where sustainability and wellbeing go hand in hand,” he said.

Ardscoil na Mara hopes to inspire even more schools in Waterford and across the country to adopt the Stride to School initiative.

Principal Padraig Cawley said: “The number of cars has decreased week after week. Our students enjoy the opportunity to chat and socialise with their friends during the walk to school, which helps them start the day feeling refreshed.”

Dylan White, Communications and Behavioural Change Officer at Waterford City and County Council, added: “The Stride to School initiative at Ardscoil na Mara not only supports the health of students but also demonstrates their commitment to tackling climate change. The reduction in traffic congestion around the school has made the area safer and more pleasant for everyone. Waterford Council looks forward to supporting other schools in rolling out active travel initiatives.”

Mícheál Ó Cadhla, Community Climate Action Officer at Waterford City and County Council, complimented the efforts of the students. “The Stride to School initiative is a practical example of climate action by the students, with positive impacts both globally and locally. I hope that more schools will be inspired to follow in their footsteps,” Mr Ó Cadhla said.

Jennifer Murphy, Environmental, Health and Safety Specialist at Sanofi, said the company is committed to fostering healthier communities and a sustainable future.

“Our partnership with Ardscoil na Mara on the Stride to School initiative embodies this commitment. By encouraging active travel, we’re not only promoting physical wellbeing among students but also contributing to a greener environment. This collaboration exemplifies our dedication to health beyond medicine and our belief in starting positive environmental habits early in life,” Ms Murphy said.