WA schools wise up about waste

Environment Minister Donna Faragher today announced new resources for teachers to promote waste reduction and recycling in schools.

Mrs Faragher also unveiled a new accreditation scheme to recognise schools that are active participants in the State Government's Waste Wise Schools program.

The Waste Wise Schools program encourages schools to reduce their waste by implementing the three 'R's - reduce, re-use and recycle - while developing positive environmental values in students and school communities.

More than 600 schools across Western Australia are currently involved in the program, which is run by the Department of Environment and Conservation and is primarily funded by the Waste Authority through the Western Australian landfill levy.

The Minister said the new teacher resources would include an operating practices manual and online curriculum-linked guides for activities on composting; worms; waste and recycling.

"Fact sheets for students and teachers will also be available on the Waste Wise Schools website, and include topics such as climate change, littering and how to make a worm farm out of a fridge," she said.

"It's all about giving teachers key information and guidance in providing support for current and future Waste Wise schools."

Mrs Faragher said a new scheme had been developed to acknowledge schools that met the requirements to become an accredited Waste Wise school.

"The requirements involve professional learning, the formation of a Waste Wise committee and the provision of a waste policy, plan and audit," she said.

"Almost 50 schools have already received their accredited Waste Wise school sign, demonstrating that these schools are serious about waste reduction in WA."

More information about the Waste Wise Schools program is available on the website http://www.wastewise.wa.gov.au/ or by phoning 6467 5167.