Valpak and RECOUP partner to boost recycling knowledge in schools

Valpak and RECycling of Used Plastics Limited (RECOUP) have joined forces to introduce free interactive resources on plastic recycling in UK schools.

The educational initiative, Sort It Out, follows the story of a littering alien and shows the different outcomes for the planet based on responsible behaviour.

Sort It Out invites schoolchildren to make choices in order to generate their own story –  if they choose to recycle the bottles left by the alien, they are rewarded with an in-depth video showing the plastic recycling process.

Valpak and RECOUP have previously worked in partnership to deliver physical sessions in schools but, due to the current restrictions, decided to develop a virtual resource instead.

The result is a teaching tool that aims to spark discussion around the volume of plastic thrown away each year, how this might impact living creatures, and how we all can make a difference.

Of the initiative, Steve Gough, CEO of Valpak, said: “Littering is a major contributor to plastic waste making its way into the oceans, so we hope that teaching children about littering in a fun way will spark ideas that will have a big impact.”

Similarly, Citizen and Stakeholder Engagement Manager of RECOUP, Anne Hitch, spoke of the impact recycling education can have on children: “During previous face-face assemblies at schools, it was evident that having the conversation about recycling encouraged students to ask questions and ignited their interest in the environment.

“They were very keen to understand what happens to plastic packaging when recycled.”

“The introduction of the new workbook will help expand the number of people learning about plastics recycling and how by being responsible we can all help protect the environment.”

Joanne Welch, Headteacher at St Catharine's Primary School, said: “The alien story and recycling video were really effective, and the video gives much more detail than usual about the recycling process.

“The resources help us meet Year 1 and 2 National Curriculum Science targets for Everyday Materials, and Year 5 targets on the Properties and Changes of Materials. They are also closely aligned with one of our school’s core values – care for creation.”

Miss Wright, a Year 4 teacher at Wellesbourne C of E Primary School, commented: “Sort It Out is a great starting point for teaching about the problem with plastic. I would love to add this to my teaching tools.”