Saltwater P-9 College in Point Cook will use a $5,000 grant to launch a student-led initiative to create eco-bricks – reusable building materials developed from plastic waste.
The school received the money thanks to Coles and Planet Ark, which awarded 20 schools across the country a share in $100,000 to turn their sustainability projects into a reality during National Recycling Week.
Saltwater P–9 College leading teacher Sarah Mason said the project is a fun and practical way for students to rethink how waste can be reused.
“Students will collect clean, dry plastic waste and pack it into bottles to make eco-bricks — strong, versatile building blocks that we’ll use to create friendship benches, sculptures and planter boxes for our green spaces,” she said.
“This project helps students understand everyone has a role to play in caring for the environment and encourages them to make sustainable choices well beyond the schoolyard.”
Planet Ark co-CEO Adam Culley said partnering with Coles was a chance to unlock the potential of young Aussies eager to tackle sustainability head-on.
“Today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders and this competition gives them the chance to bring their boldest sustainability ideas to life,” he said.
“We’re giving students the chance to see change in action, think big and lead with energy and determination. This funding is providing schools the opportunity to act now and set their school communities up for continued impact in the years to come.”
