MULLUMBIMBY PUBLIC School is the winner of Byron Shire Council’s 2017 Waste Wise Schools Challenge, recognising excellence in waste avoidance and recycling.
The school received a $1000 prize from Byron Shire Mayor, Simon Richardson, at a celebration event at the Council Chambers.
“Congratulations to Mullumbimby Public and the other five local schools who took part in the Waste Wise School’s Challenge this year.
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“What amazing results you have all achieved and what a difference you are now making at your schools, at home and for our planet,” he said.
Over the course of the year-long Challenge, Mullumbimby Public School increased its recycling rate from 45 to 80 per cent and reduced landfill waste in classrooms to zero.
This was achieved by composting food waste in two new organics bins, introducing waste free lunchboxes and soft plastics recycling, creating better signage for bins and educating other students.
Eureka Public School was the Waste Wise Schools Challenge runner up, winning $750 for increasing its recycling rates from 40 per cent in 2016 to 90 per cent in 2017.
Bangalow, Brunswick Heads and Ocean Shores Public Schools were all highly commended for their efforts and each won $250.
The Challenge involved lots of hands on, interactive learning activities throughout the year including waste audits, writing recycling action plans and an excursion to the Lismore recycling facility.
“The students involved have set a wonderful example to their schools, families and our community and I encourage all of our local primary schools to sign up for the Challenge for 2018,” Mayor Richardson said.