Biodiversity includes the whole variety of life on earth, from the rainforests - to the coral reefs - to your school pond. Protecting and enhancing Northern Ireland's unique biodiversity is an important element of the Eco-Schools programme. Eco-Schools provides the vehicle by which we can educate and involve the younger generation , but that also helps educate the wider school community to understand the importance of biodiversity.

The biodiversity information packs at the bottom of the page (one for primary and one for post-primary) will help schools complete Eco-Schools biodiveristy module helping them progress towards their Green Flag award. Each pack contains guidance and ideas on resources to teach biodiversity as well as case studies, downloads, and links to useful websites.

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency periodically offer the opportunity for schools to apply for grants. They will consider supporting programmes that encourage the conservation and enhancement of key elements of the environment and its wildlife, and the provision of facilities which help as wide a range of people as possible to enjoy and appreciate our natural heritage. Although they are not currently accepting applications for grants, the process will restart in 2009.

Expected dates for reopening of grant applications:

• Grants under £10 000 - January 2009 (for projects commencing after March 2009)
• Grants over £10 000 - May 2009 (for projects commencing from April 2010)

Further details and applications can be obtained from the following website:

http://www.ni-environment.gov.uk/landscape/grant.htm

Specific criteria for educational programmes can be obtained at the following web address:

http://www.ni-environment.gov.uk/landscape/grant/ed-projects.htm