Roseau, Dominica – July 28th, 2024: The Dominica Solid Waste Management Corporation (DSWMC) is pleased with the steady to announce the outstanding achievements of the Zero Waste Schools under the Recycle OECS project. The nation’s students continue to rise to the challenge of turning the tide on plastic pollution, demonstrated through their spirited participation in the J. Astaphans and Co. Ltd. Dutch Lady competition.
Using the observance of World Milk Day on June 1st as an occasion to reinforce Zero Waste principles, J. Astaphans and Co. Ltd partnered with the DSWMC to issue a Dutch Lady competition, encouraging students to collect the most Dutch Lady wrapping paper. Ostensibly, milk tins would thus also be in hand for bagging and drop-off for recycling.
Coulibistrie Primary School emerged as the top performer, collecting an impressive 1,357 Dutch Lady wrappers, earning the grand prize of $2,000. Convent High School and Wesley High School secured second and third places with 532 and 417 wrappers, respectively. Their efforts are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our young environmental champions.
A prize-giving ceremony is scheduled for tomorrow June 28th, at the Goodwill Primary School Auditorium to celebrate these achievements. In addition to the top prizes, every participating school will receive a $500 voucher, thanks to the generous contribution of over $24,000 from Dutch Lady. This support will assist school clubs in their ongoing environmental initiatives.
Ms. Rhoda St. John, Public Relations and Outreach Officer at DSWMC, remarked, “We are incredibly proud of the enthusiasm and dedication shown by the students. This competition has not only helped reduce waste but also educated the youth on the importance of recycling across the board. While Recycle OECS has a focus on plastics, the same principles apply in our quest to protect or environment, and the eco-systems it supports.”
In addition to the Astaphan’s Prize-giving, Rubis will also be on hand to present a cheque to Berean Christian Academy – which symbolizes the support of the businesses to the school under the Zero Waste Schools project.
According to the DSWMC, the partnership with J. Astaphans and Co. Ltd. Helps to advancing the national commitment to recycling. “Their involvement in our outreach plans for Recycling Month, observed in May June and July, reinforces our collective efforts to promote sustainable practices across Dominica.
