Climate Champions Launch Trust-Wide ‘Plastic Project’ to Tackle Waste
Friday, 28th November 2025
Student Leaders from Rivington and Blackrod High School, Harper Green School and Lostock Primary School came together on Thursday to launch the Leverhulme Trust’s inspiring new Climate Champions ‘Plastic Project’ — a joint mission to reduce plastic waste and create cleaner, greener and more sustainable school environments across the trust.
The collaborative event brought together enthusiastic young leaders who share a passion for protecting the planet. Their collective aim is clear: encourage everyone within our school communities to use less plastic, re-use what they can and recycle properly.
During the session, students discussed what is already working well within their schools, from creative recycling initiatives to eco-friendly campaigns, and identified areas where improvements could make an even bigger difference. Their ideas formed the basis of a brand-new Plastic Project Action Plan, which they will now take forward both together as a trust and back in their individual schools.
The action plan focuses on five key impact areas:
1. Reuse and recycle creatively
Students aim to give clean plastic items a new purpose whether through school events, art projects or biodiversity activities in outdoor learning spaces. These activities will both reduce waste and spark creativity across the trust.
2. Reduce plastic in canteens and kitchens
Trust schools will work towards cutting down plastic packaging by encouraging the use of alternative materials, increasing access to refill stations and reducing the number of single-use items.
3. Improve recycling across all sites
Plans include adding more recycling bins, delivering clear guidance on correct recycling in PSHE/PD lessons and building a fun, cross-Trust recycling culture through competitions and challenges.
4. Raise awareness at home and school
Students will share tips and activities with families to help reduce single-use plastics in snacks and packed lunches, encouraging everyone to make small but meaningful changes.
5. Make smarter choices when buying supplies
Schools will promote the use of reusable or refillable stationery such as refillable pens and glue sticks to reduce the need for disposable items.
The group left the event energised and determined to make a difference. Their leadership, creativity and teamwork demonstrate the powerful impact young people can have when they unite behind a shared goal.
The Plastic Project marks an exciting step forward in the trust’s sustainability journey, and our Climate Champions are ready to lead the way in shaping a greener future for all Leverhulme Trust schools.
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