More than 85 children took part in two free visits to Summerhill Waste Management Centre in Newcastle, designed to introduce the next generation to waste minimisation and recycling.
The tour of the New South Wales centre was guided by the waste services team and allowed children to have a close-up look at the daily operations of a landfill and resource recovery facility.
The tours covered various areas of the facility, including the Resource Recovery Centre, green waste, landfill and solar farm.
Children participated in an education session that covered waste facts such as the growing issue of how to properly dispose of batteries found in children’s toys, as well as problem waste such as takeaway coffee cups.
They also participated in a rubbish sorting game and building their own bin, before stepping inside a real garbage truck to meet the driver.
Jeremy Bath, Chief Executive Officer, City of Newcastle, said the tours are part of City of Newcastle’s commitment to a sustainable future.
“Engaging the community is a priority in the sustainable waste strategy framework and we are delivering this through a range of programs which include community tours of Summerhill,” Bath said.
“City of Newcastle currently diverts around 40 per cent of household waste through recycling efforts and a key part of our success lies within our framework of community education which empowers residents to understand the importance of recycling and reusing.”
David Witherdin, Managing Director of Waste Services, City of Newcastle, said the tour is designed to engage and inspire children to be passionate about responsible waste disposal and equip them to make impactful changes.
“We know children are powerful advocates for change and teaching them about proper waste sorting and recycling empowers them to make better choices, which can also positively influence their families,” Witherdin said.
“Our drivers witness the enthusiasm of our younger residents first-hand during kerbside bin collections as kids eagerly wait for the truck to pass their house, and during these tours when they line up patiently to have a chance to have a sneak peek inside the vehicles.
“By building on this natural curiosity, the tour provides an exciting opportunity for children to learn more about how their behaviours can influence positive environmental outcomes.”
For more information: https://whatson.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/
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