The Zero Waste Champions Programme aims to embed the Circular Economy in schools across Northern Ireland, providing young people with knowledge about the Circular Economy and designing waste out of their schools. Moving towards a Circular Economy can tackle environmental challenges including climate, biodiversity and create green jobs for the future.

This pioneering pilot programme is a unique opportunity for schools to become Zero Waste Champions by participating in a series of workshops over the academic year and a celebration event in their area to showcase their work. It is the first of its kind in Northern Ireland with the ambitious target of reducing consumption and introducing young people to alternatives to waste.

The pilot programme has been developed by a consortium of experts, bringing their expertise to co-design and co-deliver a series of practical workshops aimed to be engaging, informative and leading to real change in the school, home and community environments.

Delivery partners include Ostrero and NIRN members – ABC Council, Belfast City Council, Derry & Strabane District Council, Fermanagh & Omagh District Council, Fareshare NI, Habitat for Humanity, Tools for Solidarity. Three schools in each participating council are will be participating in the pilot.