All Saints’ Academy in Cheltenham has prevented the use of 37,271 plastic bottles since September, by installing water bottle refilling stations around the school.
From November, the academy stopped selling plastic water bottles, as a commitment to environmental preservation.
Interim Principal, Liam Wilkinson said, “In embracing new water bottle refilling stations, we’ve taken a significant stride in our commitment to environmental stewardship. Since September we have spared the environment from over 37,000 plastic bottles, demonstrating our commitment to reducing plastic waste. Since the start of the September term, we have phased out the sale of plastic drink bottles and now have we’re furthered our pledge by stopping the sale of plastic water bottles.
“This supports our mission to create a green, eco-friendly learning environment for our students. We hope that our actions positively influence the choices that our students and families all make beyond the Academy too.”
Students loved the benefits of both reducing plastic consumption. Cameron said, “I think that the installation of the new water dispensers is great as they allow all students to be a part of the change in this academy. The idea to distribute free reusable bottles was a great decision and has reduced the overall consumption of plastic in the school.”
Alex said the water dispensers were having a positive impact on student health, “Thanks to these water dispensers, I now no longer have to purchase plastic bottles filled with water. I have been keeping hydrated by drinking free water at school and I’m drinking more than I ever have!”
Kyle enjoyed seeing the evidence of the impact the machines were making on the environment. “One feature of the water dispenser that I personally like is the fact that there is a counter that shows how many water bottles have been saved. It gives students a sense of satisfaction as they feel that they’re helping to save the environment,” he said.
All Saints’ Academy is an Eco-School with Green Flag status, highlighting an ongoing dedication to environmentally friendly practices.
David Hall, the UK Managing Director of Brita, “Plastic bottled water takes about five seconds to make, five minutes to use, and a staggering 500 years to break down in landfill. It’s one of the main culprits of the worldwide plastic pollution crisis.”
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