The Department of Environment and Science has received an overwhelming response from Queensland schools and students wanting to join in an organic waste schools program.
Minister for the Environment, Meaghan Scanlon said the Department received 250 applications from State schools wanting to reduce their organic waste by motivating their communities to turn food and garden scraps into useable compost and other materials.
“We have now selected 217 successful projects that we will support with total funding of almost $500,000,” Ms Scanlon said.
“The Organic Waste Smart Schools Program allows schools to apply for up to $2,500 for projects such as composting and worm farm systems, behaviour change initiatives, circular food waste systems and more,” she said.
Ms Scanlon said schools had shown a great deal of imagination in coming up with projects that would encourage students to become environmentally conscious adults.
“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.
The Minister 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,” she said.
“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,” Ms Scanlon said.
