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Coles is offering Australian schools the chance to win a share in $100,000 to help fund sustainability initiatives that aim to benefit the environment as part of its inaugural Coles & Planet Ark Sustainable Schools Competition launching today1.
In partnership with Planet Ark, 20 schools from across the country will each receive $5,000 to create or enhance an environmental project which could include a garden for students to grow their own vegetables, a new composting system to reduce food waste or a canteen audit to help Australian kids make healthy food choices.
Schools are encouraged to enter throughout the month of September via the Coles websiteOpens in new window, with the winners to be announced during Planet Ark's National Recycling Week which runs from 11 to 17 November, and for which Coles is the major sponsor for a third consecutive year.
Coles Chief Operations and Sustainability Officer Matt Swindells encouraged all registered primary and secondary schools to enter the competition to win $5,000.
"This competition is being offered to school kids because we know they're extremely passionate about the environment and are looking for ways to take action to help protect the planet and create a more sustainable future," said Matt.
"I know nurturing a love for the environment at a young age not only helps build creativity but also brings a community together, rallying around the innovative ideas that kids have in order to make positive change.
"I'm looking forward to seeing the big ideas the schools enter and the impact they will have on the environment and their communities," he added.
Planet Ark Chief Executive Officer Rebecca Gilling said she was proud to be partnering with Coles to help drive sustainability in Australian schools by reducing waste production and improving waste management, energy efficiency, biodiversity, water savings and environmental awareness.
"For National Recycling Week this year we are asking Australians to 'Join the Cycle', and this competition is certainly encouraging schools to do just that. With the help of Coles, hundreds of young Australians will be inspired to foster their passion for the environment by getting outdoors and exploring new ways to care for the planet," said Rebecca.
Schools can apply hereOpens in new window, with applications open until 30 September 2024. T&Cs apply.
