Thirty-two Western Australian schools will share $109,000 in funding for waste-reduction projects as part of the State Government’s WasteSorted Schools program.
The program will help the schools fund infrastructure and initiatives such as waste sorting bins, composting systems, greenhouses, chicken coops and worm farms.
Reece Whitby, Minister for the Environment, praised the schools on their commitment to developing good waste management behaviours in their students.
“The WasteSorted Schools program plays an important role in educating and engaging students and the school community in waste avoidance and recovery practices,” he said.
Cloverdale Primary School has received $5400 to create an outdoor classroom space next to its compost and food gardens, with seating made from recycled plastic.
Cooloongup Primary School will use $5400 to install compost bins, worm farms, food digesters and mixed recycling bins, as well as paper brick makers to help students take an active hand in the recycling process.
Colour-coded and labelled waste stations will be installed at Eaton Primary School to help students correctly sort and recycle their own waste thanks to $5500, while Duncraig Primary School will use $4680 for a similar project.
Carnavon Christian School, Mother Teresa Catholic College and St Elizabeth’s Catholic Primary School will each use receive nearly $5000 for worm farms, compost bins, gardening equipment, and other projects.
Other schools have committed to establishing or supporting ‘Waste Warriors’ clubs to help empower students to engage directly with waste reduction activities.
Sue Ellery, Minister for Education and Training, said the involved schools were helping to make a positive impact on the environment, both now and in the long-term.
“We know young people are passionate about environmental causes and these grants help students to find some practical solutions to complex issues,” she said.
Applications for the next round of grants can be made between July 10 and August 30.
For more information, visit: www.wasteauthority.wa.gov.au
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