DURING September parents and students can help reduce the environmental impact of the back to school rush by considering the 3 R’s (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) when stocking up on supplies for the new term.
DOWN District Council’s Environment Committee Chairman Councillor William Dick said: “We mustxa0encourage a younger generation to reduce waste and recycle from an early age in order toxa0reduce the volume of rubbish generated by future generations”.
[caption id="attachment_41820" align="alignright" width="390"]
Anna Magorrian from St Macartan’s Primary School, Loughinisland, getting into reuse and recycle at the start of term.[/caption]Here are some green tips for mums and dads to get their children back to school.
* xa0 Buyxa0reusable lunch boxes and drinks containers to reduce the amount of rubbish that comesxa0from packaging. This will save you money throughout the year and reduce the amount goingxa0into the black bin. While it is good for the householder it is also good for the environment as itxa0will mean less waste sent to landfill.
* xa0 Buy school bags that are strong and will last for several years and if possible ones thatxa0are made from recycled material.
* xa0 Buy pens and pencils loose to avoid packing which goesxa0straight in the bin, look for items made from recycled materials.
* xa0 Reuse school uniforms thatxa0big brothers or sisters have outgrown, but are still wearable.
* xa0 Use the bus or car pool withxa0friends and if you live close enough to school.
* xa0 If its safe, walk or cycle to school.
For further information contact Down District Council Environmental Services on 028 44610800.
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