Published on November 13, 2023
Mayor Tom Tate marked National Recycling Week by meeting some of the Gold Coast's reuse experts - the Benowa State School EcoMarines.
In addition to showing the mayor their unique project that reuses chip packets, they gave him some top recycling tips.
"National Recycling Week is a good reminder that we can all do our part to reduce waste, reuse items and recycle to reduce landfills and care for the environment," said Mayor Tate.
“When it comes to waste, the most important thing you can know is what can and cannot be thrown into our yellow-lidded recycling bin.
“Remember that the top five things you can recycle are glass, paper, cardboard, aluminum and hard plastic. You'd be surprised at what you can recycle, including deodorant cans and empty pizza boxes.
“Batteries cannot go into the recycling bin, green organics or general waste. They are dangerous for both people and machines. Find your nearest battery disposal location by visiting bcycle.com.au.”
National Recycling Week runs from today until November 19.
The EcoMarines have been collecting packets of chips that will be made into blankets and distributed by the Gold Coast Youth Service.
Once collected, students from nearby Benowa State Secondary School ensure the chip packets are washed, seals removed and opened. They are then fused with an iron before ironing the bread bags for an extra layer of protection.
The sheets are then distributed as waterproof sleeping bag covers or ground sheets to help keep those living outdoors warm and dry.
Benowa State School teacher Monique Richardson, who oversees the Green Thumbs Clean Land Project, said: “At Benowa we are very proud to be part of the chip pack project which not only diverts waste from landfill but Most importantly, it answers a very important task. need in our community.
“At Benowa State School, we aim to become a zero-waste school by the end of 2026. Through our Green Thumbs and Clean Lands project, which is a sustainable waste management and edible gardens initiative. Our goal is to educate and engage our students in the importance of recycling and environmental conservation efforts, while fostering a sense of responsibility and stewardship towards our planet.
“We are also very proud of our composting system, which diverts over 2,000kg a year of food waste from landfill, which in turn reduces greenhouse gases. But, of course, it's also worth noting that reducing greenhouse gas emissions is just one of the environmental benefits of composting. Compost also improves the soil health of our food forest, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and helping to sequester carbon in the soil. We are also collecting over 16,000 liters of rainwater for OUR Food Forest.
“Our school and the Eco Marines are committed to being more environmentally conscious and reducing our carbon footprint. “Together we are working for a greener and more sustainable future.”
For more information about what can be recycled on the Gold Coast, download the city app or visit cityofgoldcoast.com.au/recycling
