Published on Thursday, 16 December 2021 at 8:41:15 AM
Thanks to Plastic Reduction Denmark (PRD) and local school students, our township is decked in environmentally-friendly bunting to replace the deteriorating tinsel that usually adorns Strickland Street over the festive season.
Earlier in the year, Spirit of Play, Denmark Primary School, Golden Hill Steiner School and Denmark Senior High School were invited by Karen Andersson to take part in the project, with the schools enthusiastically incorporating bunting making into their art classes.
Students were encouraged to unleash their creativity, decorating the flags however they liked and making themed bunting for different events held throughout the year.
Members of PRD helped to sew the flags together which totalled 67 metres, the project prompting conversation about plastic pollution and plastic alternatives.
Ms Andersson said that the project opened up learning opportunities for teachers and students about plastic reduction and gave students a sense of achievement, pride and connection.
“Students can see their work and that of their peers displayed in the centre of town and it becomes a fun activity to spot where theirs is hanging,” she said.
Businesses were also given Christmas bunting to hang outside their shops which they can keep and can return to PRD for repair as they age.
Shire of Denmark Chief Executive Officer David Schober said the work Plastic Reduction Denmark is doing in the community should be celebrated.
“When Karen first got in touch to see if the Shire would reduce the amount of tinsel used for public Christmas decorations by opting for community-made, plastic-free bunting – it was a no brainer,” Mr Schober said.
“The volunteers behind Plastic Reduction Denmark are leading a fantastic community project and I look forward to seeing how this colourful and creative project grows into the future.”
Mr Schober was also pleased to say that the Shire has committed to halt the purchase of replacement tinsel and other plastic Christmas decorations going forward.
“We can’t wait to see more and more festive bunting decorating our town in the years ahead.”
LINK
Get in touch with Plastic Reduction Denmark - https://bit.ly/3IQP6Hy
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