Posted on: Tuesday 30 April 2024
Primary school pupils are being asked to help in the battle against litter and fly-tipping by designing a poster.
Clearing fly-tipping costs the council over £1 million a year, which is money that could be spent on other crucial services.
The competition aimed at Year 5 and 6 pupils has been designed to spark enthusiasm and interest around how to tackle local environmental problems.
Pupils are encouraged to create posters that reflect their understanding of the environmental, social, and economic costs of littering and fly-tipping in the area.
The three top winning entry will receive a £30 book voucher, a certificate, and some giveaways from Eco-Schools Wales. Second and third place winners will also be awarded certificates.
The winning design will be transformed into a sign that the council and partners will use across Torfaen.
Councillor Mandy Owen, Executive Member for the Environment, said: “Fly-tipping is an environmental crime which also impacts on local communities where our children live.
“We hope this competition will encourage people to think twice about dumping rubbish or using unlicenced traders who may not dispose of rubbish in the correct way.”
“I’m looking forward to seeing the children’s creations.”
Neil Harison, team Leader, Flt-Tipping Action Wales, said: “We're excited to be a part of this competition which will teach younger people about fly-tipping and encourage them to think about how it affects their local community.
“We can't wait to turn the winning design into a sign that will reminds everyone that sees it to think about how they dispose of unwanted items and household waste responsibly.
“We all need to work together to keep our local environments clean and beautiful!”
Kylie Hughes, Education Officer for Eco-Schools at Keep Wales Tidy, said: “This is an exciting opportunity for primary schools across Torfaen to showcase their environmental knowledge and make a positive difference in their communities.
“Whenever I visit schools in Torfaen, I’m always impressed by the pupils’ passion and creativity – I can’t wait to see what they come up with in this competition.”
Entries will be judged by representatives from the council, Fly-Tipping Action Wales and Eco-Schools Wales.
Closing dates for entries is Wednesday 05 June.
To register your interest, please email oliver.james@torfaen.gov.uk
Find out more about the competition