The Queensland.government has been overwhelmed with schools and students wanting to join in the Organics Waste Smart Schools Program.
Meaghan Scanlon, Environment Minister said 250 applications were received from state schools wanting to reduce their organic waste by turning food and garden scraps into useable compost and other materials. She said 217 successful projects will be supported with total funding of almost $500,000.
The Organics Waste Smart Schools Program allows schools to apply for up to $2500 for projects such as composting and worm farm systems, behaviour change initiatives and circular food waste systems.
Scanlon said schools showed a great deal of imagination in coming up with projects that would encourage young students to become environmentally conscious adults by putting systems in place at school and at home to cut down on organic waste going to landfill.
“For example, Nundah State School will be installing compost bins and the Currumbin Community Special School will establish a worm farm and garden bed,” she said.
“Home Hill State School will become involved in sustainable agriculture, Cranbrook State School will work with Bokashi bins and chickens, Mundubbera State School is going to care for two goats, and the Capella State School is going to purchase bins to separate waste.”
Scanlon said there was “a wave of momentum” in Queensland communities looking to reduce their waste, increase their recycling and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
“Avoiding and reducing organic waste is a strong first step. Organic matter, such as food and garden waste, make up to 50 per cent of what goes in domestic waste bins. This program allows us to help educate the next generation about how to reduce, reuse and recycle, which benefits everyone in the long run.”
For more information, visit: statements.qld.gov.au
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