A Reading nursery has recently adopted a 'lights off hour' initiative as part of several themed activities to mark national Big Energy Saving Week.

Children at Green Park Day Nursery in Lime Square, which holds an Eco-Schools silver award for exceptional environmental awareness, have been spending between one and three hours a day with switches turned off, depending on the natural light conditions outside.

Manager of the nursery, Lisa Manston, explained that the initiative was just one element of environment-themed schemes which take place at the nursery throughout the year.

“We feel it’s important to recognise Big Energy Saving Week in nursery as part our focus on respecting and protecting the environment," she said.

"Our children learn valuable life lessons, which will stand them in good stead for the future, as being energy efficient not only helps protect the planet, it also saves money too."

The nursery, which is powered by electricity from renewable sources, even has a full time Eco-Committee, which is made up of children and staff who ensure recycling bins are clearly labelled and appropriately used.

They also remind everyone to turn off lights and taps when no longer needed.

Other activities, which include crafting with natural and recycled materials, are designed to promote the development of personal, social and emotional life skills as well as introducing the children to basic maths, science and environmental messages.

The nursery is also in the process of switching to more energy efficient LED lighting. It has also achieved nearly zero waste to landfill as nappy waste is collected and sorted by specialists, with non-recyclable material used in Energy from Waste processes to power hospitals or boost the National Electricity Grid.

Food waste is sent to specialist anaerobic digestion facilities or used in the nursery composting bin to support vegetable and herb growing beds in the garden.