Picker Pals Ireland is set to expand its environmental education programme after Minister of State Alan Dillon announced almost €380,000 in funding for the 2026–2027 school year. The initiative will reach 966 classrooms nationwide and empower an estimated 24,000 children and their families to take practical environmental action in their communities.
Picker Pals Ireland expands environmental action in schools
Delivered in every county, Picker Pals gives primary school pupils the opportunity to lead family litter-picking activities. Each week, a different pupil brings a classroom Picker Pack home, completes a local clean-up with their family and shares the experience with classmates.
The Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment said the programme supports lifelong environmental responsibility by making children active participants in caring for their local areas. Since 2021, the department has provided approximately €1.5 million to support Picker Pals, reaching more than 3,500 primary school classrooms.
VOICE Ireland manages the programme’s administration and governance, while the programme’s intellectual property is held by delivery partner Birthday Press. The initiative has contributed to the collection of an estimated 1,000 tonnes of waste since it began.
What schools receive
To encourage the sustainable use of equipment, participating schools will receive packs on a 50:50 basis:
- New schools will receive a Full Programme Pack containing equipment and learning materials.
- Many returning schools will receive a Booster Box with refreshed educational content and resources designed to reuse existing equipment.
Lessons and activities will cover litter prevention, biodiversity, the circular economy and active travel. Students can also take part in live online lessons, Kahoot quizzes and thematic videos through Picker Pals TV. The programme remains free for schools through government support.
Picker Pals supports Ireland’s circular economy goals
The updated materials are intended to complement the department’s circular economy priorities, including waste prevention, reuse and awareness of the Deposit Return Scheme. The programme also aligns with the seven core competencies of Ireland’s new Primary Curriculum.
Schools in Lucan, Bruff, Carlingford, Castlebar and Templemore have highlighted the programme’s practical benefits, including stronger environmental habits, community engagement and pupil-led litter-picking. For rural schools and special schools in particular, the hands-on model provides an accessible way for children to see the impact of their actions.
Additional schools may still be able to join the 2026–2027 programme, although places are limited. The final list of participating schools is expected to be published in the coming weeks. Information is available through the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment’s litter funding publications on gov.ie.
Why the programme matters
Picker Pals combines classroom learning with direct community action. Instead of treating litter as an abstract issue, pupils learn how waste affects their neighbourhoods, wildlife and shared public spaces. Families also become involved, helping children develop habits around waste reduction, reuse and civic responsibility.
For schools, the programme offers structured teaching resources without a participation fee. For communities, it creates a simple model that connects education, family involvement and local environmental improvement.
Key facts about Picker Pals
- €380,000 in funding announced for 2026–2027.
- 966 classrooms expected to participate.
- Approximately 24,000 children and families targeted.
- Programme active in every county in Ireland.
- More than 3,500 classrooms supported since 2021.
Conclusion
Picker Pals Ireland shows how practical school-based action can support cleaner communities and long-term environmental awareness. With free resources, family participation and a clear connection to circular economy priorities, the programme gives children a meaningful role in shaping a more sustainable Ireland.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie