Douglas Shire primary students have been learning about protecting the Great Barrier Reef and other environmental projects through a unique collaboration. 

The EcoSmart Kids workshop, run by solar-energy company GoodWe and reef-protection organisation the Forever Reef Project, has visited Mossman and Port Douglas State Schools to run student workshops.

GoodWe’s John Wright and Anie Kapadia and Forever Reef Project managing director Dean Miller are part of a national school program to help raise more climate-change awareness and further educate students on solar power.

Mr Miller spoke on the contribution the Forever Reef Project makes to protecting the Great Barrier Reef through collecting coral and how GoodWe helps provide the centre’s coral banks with reliable power.

Mr Wright said this is a great way to spread awareness among young people.

“The whole idea of this workshop and competition is to inform and inspire rather than just teach and preach,” he said.

Port Douglas State School principal Doug Barnes said the visit is a great way to further educate students.

“It’s a great opportunity for our students to learn more about climate change, renewable energy and environmental conservation,” Mr Barnes said.

“This is the first time we have had a visit from GoodWe and we have excursions planned to visit the Forever Reef Project.”