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 the retailer’s inaugural Coles & Planet Ark Sustainable Schools Competition, 20 schools from across the country will each receive $5000 to create or enhance an environmental project.
Schools are encouraged to enter throughout the month of September via the Coles website. The winners will be announced during Planet Ark’s National Recycling Week (11-17 November).
Coles Chief Operations and Sustainability Officer Matt Swindells encourages all registered primary and secondary schools to enter the competition to win $5000.
“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,” he says.
“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.”
Planet Ark CEO Rebecca Gilling says she’s 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,” she says.
“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.”