Students aim to cut the waste

NOOSA Council is encouraging a new generation of waste-wise youngsters in an attempt to slash local schools’ waste and to equip students with recycling know-how.
The council, in co-operation with Sandie Johnston of EnviroCom has been working with local schools to audit their waste production and implement recycling initiatives.
So far seven Noosa schools, kindergartens and early learning centres are involved in the program, which includes an awards component to recognise schools that do well.
Noosa Council waste co-ordinator Doug Barnes said Ms Johnston would help the student conduct an initial audit of the school before implementing any changes.
“She’ll then carry out a further audit at a later date to compare the results and assess the school’s progress,” Mr Barnes said.
Ms Johnston said the results had been positive, with students embracing the waste-wise initiatives.
“What is really great about this program is the students are not just recycling at school, they’re also taking the recycling messages home and encouraging their families to recycle right and try out composting or worm farming too,” she said.
Mr Barnes said all Noosa residents could make a difference through recycling.
“We’ve just celebrated Planet Ark’s National Recycling Week so it’s timely for residents to consider what they can do at home to reduce their general waste,” he said.
Mr Barnes said there were a number of misconceptions when it came to recycling.
“Many people are unaware that empty aerosol cans are recyclable in kerbside bins, they are made from fully recyclable steel or aluminium,” he said.
“It’s also important to remember that plastic bags shouldn’t be placed in recycling bins as they cannot be recycled. Items contained within the plastic bags end up being sent to landfill as the systems in the sorting facility can’t separate the various materials and the bags clog the machines.”