Primary schools are taking the issue of plastic waste into their own hands by setting up initiatives which hire out reusable plastic kids party tableware.
The money-making idea, which is run by the school’s parent-teacher association (PTA), also has the benefit of reducing the amount of disposable plates, bowls and cups being used at children’s parties.
A Cardiff-based school, Roath Park Primary, has been offering parents the option of renting an ‘eco party pack’ for some time now. The successsful idea is now being taken up by other schools in the area as a way of simutaneoulsy cutting back on single-use plastics and raising funds.
“I started the eco party pack about a year ago when my son had a birthday party,” said Jo Harris, who came up with the initial concept. “Previously, lots of plastic ended up in the bin and I thought it was a waste.”
So far, it is estimated the pack has saved about 500 disposable plates, cups and bowls from ending up in landfill.
Since the eco party packs have received praise on social media, the idea has spread to other schools in the local area.
A spokesman from Keep Wales Tidy said: “We would like to congratulate schools working to reduce the use of single-use items. It is great that they looking at making changes within the wider community.”
