Lochinver Early Learning Centre
Children at Lochinver Early Years Centre began a marine litter project funded by the Litter Less Campaign, looking at the effects of micro plastics like glitter and microbeads, and encouraging local fishermen to join the KIMO Fishing for Litter initiative.
Their £200 grant was spent on litter picks, and leaflet printing.
Children learned about the dangers of marine litter and how 80% of marine litter comes from land. They produced two leaflets: one for the fishing industry and one for their local community.
They hoped to persuade local harbours to join the KIMO Fishing For Litter Initiative and raise awareness of plastic waste recycling and micro-bead/glitter pollution in their local community.
Fishing for Litter is an imaginative yet simple initiative that aims to reduce marine litter by involving one of the key stakeholders, the fishing industry.
Participating vessels are given hardwearing bags to collect marine litter that is caught in their nets during their normal fishing activities.
After raising awareness through a leaflet survey, children at the nursery held meetings with Harbour Masters and Highland Council which resulted in members of the Council participating in talks with KIMO representatives on how to take initiative forward.
Next, they plan to approach neighbouring schools and Highland Council to encourage them to use biodegradable glitter since the glitter normally used is made of plastic which will never degrade.
Children are now keenly aware of the effects of marine litter and some of its sources. Lochinver and Achiltibuie beaches have both benefited from beach cleans.
Children are aware of types of litter found and can sort into properties of materials. They're also aware of the journey of dirty water through the sewage works and use of sludge cake.
Lochinver EYC used their Eco-Code to spread the word about their activities through the sale of reusable shopping bags helping to reduce plastic bag pollution.
