The Princess of Wales has revealed an unexpected source of environmental inspiration, citing the popular children's character Bob the Builder. Kate explained that her family adheres to the animated workman's philosophy of not letting anything go to waste.
During a visit to an Italian project dedicated to re-using industrial surplus, the Princess discussed the principles at the Remida centre in Reggio Emilia. She said: 'There’s a popular character called Bob the Builder and he has a philosophy of ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ and you embrace that here. It’s something as a mother, and I feel as a family we do a lot, is try to have at the back of our minds.'
The princess travelled to Italy to learn about Reggio Emilia’s world-renowned education programme for young children that stresses the importance of parents, educators and the environment – 'the third teacher' – that surround a child. She began her day visiting a public infant-toddler centre and nursery school in the city to learn more about the education system and joined children at an outside activity.
She paid tribute to broadcaster and naturalist Sir David Attenborough, saying: 'David Attenborough says you have to be able to experience nature in order to protect it – it’s so true.' During her visit to the Remida centre, Kate learned it was a resource hub where teachers can bring pre-school children to work on special projects designed to boost their learning through creativity. Unwanted materials are donated by companies, including Tetra Pak.
Kate ended her visit to Italy by taking on the role of a 'rezdora' or housewife, making fresh tortelli pasta. Chef Ivan Lampredi guided her through the process and after she finished the task told her 'You are hired.' He said later: 'I have shown many people how to do this exactly right and she was very good at it. She is a natural rezdora.'
