AN environmental building company has partnered up with an Essex-based social impact organisation on a green initiative for schools.

The partnership, between Net Zero Buildings (NZB) and Points4Planet (P4P), will see over 2,000 schools, authorities, and businesses provided with effective carbon-reducing strategies in the next year.

This is in line with the Department for Education's Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy.

P4P, located in Maldon, was founded by CEO Gary Hicks, who was galvanised into action by his six-year-old granddaughter's environmental concerns.

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The enterprise involves schools completing sustainability surveys, after which their carbon footprints are assessed and displayed via a simple key dial.

The initiative also assigns Planet Influencer Points (PIPs), which assess the school's commitment to green practices.

Companies such as Greggs and Travis Perkins are already backing the initiative.

Mr Hicks said: "We want to amplify the voices of children and young people in the environmental movement, ensuring they are heard and heeded by decision-makers at all levels from headteachers to global corporations."

He added: "Together, we can create a positive, lasting impact on both our environment and the well-being of future generations."

Dan Allison, director at NZB, said: "We are deeply committed to promoting sustainability and reducing carbon emissions and it has been hugely exciting to collaborate with Points4Planet.

“This partnership is a reflection of our shared commitment to sustainability and educational excellence."

David Triggs, chairman of P4P, added: "And our ultimate goal? To see every one of the 32,000 schools in the UK join this transformative movement.”