As part of marking European Climate Diplomacy Week, the Delegation of the EU to Bosnia and Herzegovina and the EU Info Centre organised an innovative recycling art workshop for primary school pupils in Sarajevo on 14 September.

Matthew Field, Head of Political Section at the Delegation of the EU/EUSR Office in BiH, commended the efforts of educating new generations about climate change.

“This week is celebrated worldwide as the European Climate Diplomacy Week. In order for each country to do its part in tackling climate change, we, individuals must contribute to this end by taking care about the nature and environment. I’m not too proud of my generation and the generation before regarding the environment protection, but I hope that we will be very proud of the generations to come,” Field said.

The art workshop was aimed at raising awareness about the importance of recycling for the protection of nature and preservation of the healthy environment.

More than fifty pupils from five primary schools learned a simple method to recycle paper, using it for their artworks created during the workshop.

Recognised BiH visual artist Taida Jašarević, who moderated the workshop, underlined the importance of practical knowledge in general, especially when it comes to environment protection.

“I believe that the pupils gained practical knowledge on recycling paper and producing new sheets of paper with this simple method, and I hope this process has spurred their imagination and curiosity, encouraging them to continue developing their creativity in the field of art creation,” Jašarević concluded.

Specially-made moulds and other equipment used during the workshop have been donated to the participating schools allowing the teachers to continue applying the workshop concept in their regular class activities, thus introducing this simple and effective recycling method to more students. Application of the method aims at motivating teachers and students to recycle and practice more responsible behaviour towards the environment.

Artworks created during the workshop will be exhibited in the EU Info Centre’s premises and participating schools.

European Climate Diplomacy Week is marked around the world, in cooperation with the EU and its Member States. It seeks to emphasise positive climate action and encourage extensive dialogue and a common response to climate change.