BINGLEY Grammar School is leading the way to plastic-free status in the town by reducing its reliance on single-use plastic.

It is working with P&A Food Management Services to replace hot food trays, fruit pot containers, and sandwich wrappings which used to be made from plastic are now made from 'vegware' which is fully compostable, and plastic cutlery has been replaced with biodegradable alternatives.

Students are fully onboard with the project, working with the school leadership team to do more to reduce plastic use and waste in general.

Luke Weston, headteacher, said: “There are often discussions in school with students regarding the effects of pollution and the impact it can have on what is really their world and their future.

"A significant proportion of our students chose to attend organised demonstrations against Climate Change and our impact on the environment is definitely something our students care about.”

Members of the School Council added: “As Student Councillors, we believe it is vital to educate our peers on the importance of recycling and reducing plastic waste.

"We are looking forward to our trip to Veolia HQ, so that we can learn the importance of reducing plastic waste, and relaying the important information back to our peers.

"We hope together as a school, we can make a significant impact on reducing waste, and hope to encourage and inspire others to do the same.”

At the students' suggestion, the school is also trialling plastic-only recycling bins, providing more water fountains, using compostable bin bags and separate paper recycling.