In June, the Year 6 co-curricular club, Eco Warriors, had the honour of presenting to Environment Minister, Amber-Jade Sanderson, and Member for Mount Lawley, Simon Millman.
Their meeting with the politicians stemmed from the news that Greenbatch had gone into liquidation earlier in 2021. The students had been collecting and sorting plastic lids and containers for Greenbatch, who recycle them locally.
To express their disappointment and proactively encourage the State Government to invest in a similar recycling facility to process small plastics, the students wrote to Mr Millman as well as Premier, Mark McGowan.
A few weeks later, they heard back from Mr Millman’s office asking to meet with them. Students prepared their presentations and practiced their speeches ahead of the visit when they were able to clearly explain the problem and their solutions.
The Environment Minister responded to their concerns and shared that a new company would soon start processing plastic bottle lids through the Containers for Change depots.
“It was a great experience and has motivated the students to continue campaigning for the environment,” supervising teacher, Jo Harmsworth, said.
Students also took the opportunity to discuss protecting animals and climate change, as well as pitch their ideas for reducing fossil fuels and improving recycling practices in WA.
“It is good to know that the plastic bottle lids we have collected will be recycled and not create more rubbish,” Alex said.
“I liked that they commented on our mascot at the end of our presentation,” Ellie added.
“It was great to learn that there is a solution, and the State Government are planning for more environmentally friendly options,” Tiare said.
