Proving that youngsters understand the importance of taking care of the environment, three hundred and fifty pupils have taken part in an eco retreat day run by Cardiff Council. The primary school children, aged between seven and eleven, were part of Cardiff Council’s ‘Really Rubbish’ campaign, an initiative designed to educate children as to the importance of global warming and to broaden children’s awareness of environmental issues.

During the retreat, the children who attended were able to showcase projects that they had spent weeks working on. The highlight of the event was the Really Rubbish Spring/Summer 2010 Competition – ‘Re-Fashion Live’. This event allowed children to produce an outfit, or accessory, made from recycled materials.

Following a catwalk show, eleven finalists were picked on the day. Designs chosen as winners included, a handbag made from a denim skirt, jeans made from magazines, a dress made from newspaper and a backpack, made from a washing powder box.

The children wholeheartedly embraced the event and it was deemed a success. This event showcases one of the different ways in which councils can get the environmental message across to the younger generations. Other methods include the use of promotional products and promotional leaflets to raise awareness. However, children are more likely to respond to a message if it is conveyed in such a way that they are able to become actively involved, or through the use of promotional merchandise.

Promotional products, such as Eco Friendly Recycled Newspaper Pencils, are ideal for spreading the message to kids. These promotional products are brightly coloured, attractive, usable and user friendly.

Other examples of promotional merchandise that will appeal to kids are items such as Eco Friendly Eco Pens and Recycled Drink Bottle Rulers. Promotional merchandise such as Eco Friendly Organic Pencil Cases also proves very popular with the younger generations.