The Rethink Waste initiative hosted by Greenredeem, funded by the Surrey Environment Partnership and supported by Elmbridge Borough Council, has now been running for a year. We’re excited to share the results of this initiative so far. Not just the positive impact that it has had on waste reduction throughout the borough, but the community efforts to raise funds for local schools and charities.

During the first quarter we saw the first round of school donations in which residents who signed up could donate points earned by completing waste reduction activities to local schools. Ten Elmbridge schools took part, each coming up with eco-ideas on how to bring sustainable learning to their students. Hundreds of activities were completed which meant thousands of points were donated by members including parents, staff and friends of the school.

All the schools did brilliantly, with Grovelands Primary School topping the leader board. They received an impressive 199,535 points in donations which translated to a cheque for almost £850. With the funding, they’ve created their very own grow-your-own garden and students are learning what it takes to cultivate food to eat at home.

A second round of donations has also just come to an end with another five Elmbridge schools getting a share of the £1,000 funding, based on the number of points they have raised.

Councillor Ashley Tilling, Portfolio Holder for Environmental Services, has been encouraged to see people registering and making a difference:

“It’s been great to see how so many Elmbridge school children have become involved with Rethink Waste by recycling more and helping to save the planet. This has had huge value in our community and I’m excited to see more residents get involved.”

Residents have banded together to make a difference, with over 1,700 joining the scheme so far, taking part in activities and reward systems. One of the many winners of the Rethink Waste prize draw explained how Rethink Waste has kept them informed while earning points:

“I find the Greenredeem website both informative and enjoyable - there is so much useful information. We do recycle everything that we can, but there are so many other interesting items to read - and receive points for!” – Sue Parker

The Rethink Waste platform was introduced to help reduce waste in Elmbridge. It’s because of this that the weekly activities for members have been centred around reducing waste, from recycling more food waste to knowing where to recycle soft plastics, and of course, living a zero waste lifestyle. Engagement with the scheme has been high, with 27,058 actions taken across the area.

Reducing waste also helps to reduce carbon emissions. Through Rethink Waste and taking part in carbon saving activities,  Elmbridge residents have prevented 1.438T CO2e from entering the atmosphere.

The first year has made a great impact, but there’s still time to get involved. Don’t miss out, find out more or register with Rethink Waste today.