Grants help schools go eco-friendly

The annual grants program EcoPorts is now open with schools in port communities invited to apply.

NQBP Chief Executive Officer Nicolas Fertin said there were ten EcoPorts grants available, each worth $1000, for projects that support or contribute to developing a sustainable environment.

“Our EcoPorts grants program increases student involvement in sustainability projects and aims to deliver long term benefits for our port communities,” Mr Fertin said.

“NQBP is proud to support grassroots projects that engage young people in our port communities to help create awareness, understanding and appreciation for the environment,” he said.

“Each year we look forward to seeing what kind of projects local students are wanting to undertake to help make their community a better place to live.”

Mr Fertin said last year there had been a lot of great initiatives and one example was the recycling bin for cans established at Alligator Creek State School.

School deputy principal Sonya Wilkins said the cans and plastic bottles collected in the recycling bin went towards the school’s Cash for Cans account.

“The collection bin is well supported by our community,” Ms Wilkins said.

“The money raised goes towards our Student Association where members hold regular meetings with our Year 6 teachers to help organise some school activities and decide upon resource purchases for the school.”

To be eligible to apply, schools must be in one of NQBP’s port communities: Hay Point, Mackay, Bowen or Weipa.

To find out more or to apply for an EcoPorts grant, eligible schools can contact us.

Applications close on Friday 10 May, 2019.