Nong Salut Zero Waste project
Waste is a significant issue that affects every household and community. Whether useless materials or the increasing amount of plastic waste due to population growth, this school also face problems. They are dealing with the same challenges, such as excessive waste and a lack of knowledge about proper waste management.
The school has realised the benefits of proper waste management. Not only does it contribute to a cleaner and more beautiful school environment, but it also improves student health and hygiene. Additionally, if waste is properly managed and recycled, it can generate income to support other school initiatives.
Supported by World Vision Thailand and Citi Foundation under the Youth Innovation for a Sustainable Environment (Trash2Cash) project, youth leaders initiated the Nong Salut Zero Waste project that aims to educate students about waste segregation and recycling, ultimately reducing the amount of waste in the school and creating new products from recycled materials, such as school milk bags.
The project involved a variety of activities, including awareness campaigns on school waste management, announcements over the public address system, exhibitions, distribution of pamphlets, demonstrations on waste sorting, and encouraging students to use personal water cups instead of plastic bottles. In addition, the project also involved upcycling milk bag waste.
The school milk bag upcycling activity aims to repurpose waste by transforming it into useful products such as bags and garlands.
Bags made from upcycled school milk bags, crafted by students participating in the project, are another innovation arisen from this initiative.
On August 28, 2024, the school and students were honoured with the "Climate Change and Environmental Youth Network Award 2024, Silver Medal” from the Department of Climate Change and Environment, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. This is a great achievement and a source of pride for the students, the school, and World Vision Thailand.
Silver Award for Excellence in Youth-led Climate Action and Environmental Initiatives 2024
The Trash2Cash project does more than just raise awareness about waste and environmental issues. It also empowers youth to think critically, analyse problems, and develop solutions within their communities. By participating in the project, youth acquire valuable skills such as recycling, optimising resource utilisation, practising environmentally friendly waste management, and generating income from upcyclable materials. The ultimate goal is to foster sustainable change by inspiring youth to become leaders in their communities.
Furthermore, this project encourages youth to innovate and develop novel approaches to waste management. It also fosters the creation of sustainable businesses using local resources, thereby generating long-term positive economic, social, and environmental impacts.
A demonstration on waste sorting, covering organic waste, recyclables, general waste, and hazardous waste