Central Coast Council, Rumbalara Environmental Education Centre and Cleanaway have joined forces to help local schools reduce their landfill and increase their resource recovery.

Eight schools have come on board the Wiping Out Waste (WOW) pilot program to review their current waste management and contract costs before setting new goals and action plans for waste reduction.

Principal of the Rumbalara Environmental Education Centre (RECC), Christine Freeman said effective recycling, reusing and waste reduction must be a whole-of-community effort with communities, government and the private sector working together.

“The WOW model sends a clear message of shared responsibility,” said Ms Freeman.

“We’re delighted so many schools are taking this opportunity to support students in playing a practical role in creating a sustainable future – their future.”

Each school in the program will establish a WOW committee, which comprises of staff, parents and students, who will be supported through the program to complete waste audits.

To further increase their knowledge and skills Cleanaway will provide additional support through their existing education program in order to help schools create practical solutions to reduce waste.

“We’re expecting the program won’t only reduce schools’ waste and maximise resource recovery for the good of the planet, but also reduce waste management costs for the schools involved,” Ms Freeman added.

Mayor Jane Smith said this pilot program was one of many innovative ways Council was actively working with the community to increase educational programs while diverting waste from landfill.

“As a teacher, it is fantastic to see so many schools actively engaged in trying to reduce their ecological footprint,” Mayor Smith said.

“With the second round of audits set to start this week, I am looking forward to seeing what changes in behaviour they uncover as well as the original ideas each of the schools come up with to reduce their waste.

“Council is committed to reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill, which is why we are in the process of developing a Waste Management Strategy for the Central Coast.

“I would encourage all residents to have their say via yourvoiceourcoast.com and help us shape the way waste and resource recovery is delivered and managed across the Central Coast region.”

Schools taking part are Wamberal Public School, Terrigal High School, Holy Cross Kincumber, Holgate Public School, Chertsey Public School, Tuggerawong Public School, Woodport Public School and Terrigal Public School.

All Central Coast schools were invited to participate via an Expression of Interest process last October. Schools after more information are encouraged to contact Rumbalara ECC.

This project is a Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded by the Waste Levy.

ENDS