Düsseldorf (dpa/lnw) – With a new “KlimaKita.NRW” award, the state government wants to recognize day-care centers that are particularly committed to climate protection. The program of the same name is aimed at institutions that want to playfully explore the topic of climate protection with children. An application is now possible, as the national company NRW.Energy4Climate announced on Tuesday in Düsseldorf. “During the application process, the institutions receive training offers and are provided with material packages free of charge,” said a spokeswoman.

The prerequisite for an award is evidence of activities to “introduce, consolidate and anchor” the topic. After a successful test there is an award ceremony, a certificate and a plaque for the house wall.

The national company also makes an offer to schools. Teachers can book a double lesson with a speaker for grades 5 to 10. In it, students in grades five and six build a model water wheel. With the “KlimaTeens” offer for grades seven to nine, young people learn about different types of plastic, manufacturing, disposal and recycling processes. “The offers are suitable for all secondary schools and all subjects with a scientific connection,” said the spokeswoman.

“Climate protection should become a matter of course for future generations. Early climate education in day care centers and schools is therefore particularly important,” said Energy4Climate Managing Director Ulf C. Reichardt.