Children learn importance of recycling at inspiring climate change workshop

Date published: 14 April 2022

An inspiring climate change workshop recently look place at Deeplish Community Centre as part of a diverse Easter programme of activities.

Nigel Goulding, environment education officer, and Faizan Mahmood, environment recycling apprentice discussed the importance of using fewer single-use plastic bottles and drinking tap water using reusable water bottles.

It is estimated that 35.8 million plastic bottles are used every day in the UK.

They also spoke about the importance of recycling paper and cardboard so fewer trees need to be cut down.

Commander Carrot, one of the council’s ‘food heroes’ gave out certificates and bookmarks, explaining the importance of reducing food waste.

A book – “the life of a little plastic bottle” – was read to the younger group, which learnt about which items can be recycled and which cannot. They then dressed up as recycling superheroes to put the right items in the right bin using bean bags.

The group put some plastic bottles from last year’s local half-marathon and 10k to good use, upcyling them into bird feeders to show that every day items can be put to good use before being recycled.

Operations manager Sohail Ahmad said: “We are fully onboard with the council’s climate change action plan and are committed to providing an engaging and fun-based programme. Our fun Easter playscheme is for many children and young people to participate in whilst learning about local and national initiatives.

“All our volunteers, committee members and staff team are also fully on board in promoting well-being support during these very challenging times to our residents and communities.