Derry and Strabane schools complete pioneering Zero Waste Schools Programmme

The Northern Ireland Resources Network celebrated the success of its Zero Waste Schools Programme in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area with a special event for the three participating primary schools at the Guildhall this week.

Ebrington PS Clooney, Chapel Rd PS and St Catherines PS (Strabane) came together to celebrate the pioneering initiative that aims to embed Circular Economy principles and actions in schools, providing young people with the knowledge to help them eliminate waste at their schools.

The schools became Zero Waste Champions by participating in a series of practical workshops covering topics such as food waste, waste diversion, stitching skills and challenging textile waste with partnering organisations - Tools for Solidarity, FareShare NI, Habitat for Humanity and Ostrero.

This programme has the ambitious target of reducing consumption and introducing young people to reuse and repair as an alternative to landfill and recycling.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council Councillor Ruairí McHugh presented the young people with their awards and congratulated them on their participation.

"Congratulations to the three schools on becoming the first to complete the Zero Waste Schools Programme,” he said.

"Every one of us has a responsibility to make a conscious effort to contribute to a Circular Economy and to prevent our waste from going to landfill by reusing and repairing our household items.

"Our young people are our future and educating them on how they can reduce their waste and become more sustainable in their every day life is the key to achieving our goal of a Zero Waste economy.

"The enthusiasm of the young people and their willingness to become Zero Waste Champions fills me with optimism that we can achieve that."

NIRNs Executive Director Eimear Montague added: “The programme is key to encouraging sustainability discussions both at school and home, empowering children to become advocates for waste reduction.

“Engaging with our young people at an early age is necessary to change behaviours and attitudes towards products and materials as waste but rather as resources that can be used continuously through reuse and repair. 

IN PICTURES: Zero Waste Schools Programmme completed by Derry and Strabane schools

“We are so proud of all the schools that have participated, and our delivery partners so much has been achieved.

“By focusing on practical applications such as reuse and repair, students have learned to view discarded items as valuable resources. This shift in perspective is crucial for long-term behavioural change that prioritises sustainability.”

For further information on the Zero Waste Schools Programme contact Maria McLaughlin maria@ni-rn.org