13 November 2007

Students from Cairns State High School are using innovative tactics to make sure that litter doesn’t end up on the Great Barrier Reef.

The eco-conscious school has placed environmentally friendly rubbish bins throughout the school grounds and has a team of students and staff dedicated to ensuring that the school’s litter is disposed of properly.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Reef Guardian Schools Programme Manager Ms Megan Sperring said that the school’s responsible rubbish programme was being recognised with a ‘Ripples of Change’ award and $500 in funding for future initiatives.

“The students have really shown their dedication to keeping their school clean and stopping pollution,” she said.

“It is wonderful to see schools leading the way in our communities and setting good examples of what we can all do to help protect the environment.”

Last year, the Cairns State High School designed key rings featuring pollution and reef related messages.

Representatives from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority will present the students with their award and personally thank them for the efforts in helping to conserve the Great Barrier Reef for future generations.

Eight of the 30 Reef Guardian Award winners are located in the Cairns region.