Derry school roadshow inspires next generation of ‘Zero Heroes’

Translink’s inspirational school roadshow, ‘Zero Heroes’, which educates young minds across Derry about the significance of sustainable public transport, has returned due to popular demand.

The initiative provides educational messages as well as first-hand experiences of cleaner travel by taking place on a Foyle Metro zero emissions double decker bus. Derry is trailblazing when it comes to sustainable public transport as it is one of the first cities in the UK and Ireland to operate a fully emissions-free urban bus service.

IN PICTURES:  Translink school roadshow inspires next generation of Derry's ‘Zero Heroes’

Having engaged with more than 1,000 pupils since its launch, the roadshow showcases the features of the all-electric Foyle Metro fleet, the wider benefits of public transport and the crucial role of zero emissions travel for a greener future.

With the educational resources provided and the practical experience of travelling sustainably, local schoolchildren and their families are encouraged to join this decarbonisation journey, leave the car at home, and become ‘Zero Heroes’ for their city.

Translink Area Manager, Sarah Simpson, commented: “We are delighted to be back on the road visiting schools around the city through our ‘Zero Heroes’ initiative. It's vital that we help educate young minds about the importance of sustainable travel for our economic, social and environmental wellbeing.

“Seeing so many children embrace their new roles as ‘Zero Heroes’ reflects our commitment to driving modal shift and leaving the car at home for a cleaner, greener future for generations to come. We hope this initiative will have a lasting impact and inspire more people to embrace public transport and active travel.

“We wish all our new ‘heroes’ success on their individual zero e-missions!" 

Cara Laverty, a teacher at Oakgrove Integrated Primary School, added: “Translink has done an amazing job with this roadshow and our young ‘Zero Heroes’ thoroughly enjoyed the experience. It was exciting for them to see the big red bus pull up outside the school, and the engaging session really brought an important message to life. Not all learning necessarily takes place in the classroom, so these real-world opportunities are invaluable when it comes to educating and inspiring the next generation.”

The Zero Heroes Roadshow also supports Translink’s strategic vision to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and operate a zero emissions fleet across Northern Ireland by 2040.

For more information, please visit www.translink.co.uk/zerohero or follow @Translink_NI on social media.