Primary school pupils were delighted to find out what happens to their recycling during a special behind-the-scenes visit ahead of the official opening of Eco-Town.
The new interactive Education Walkway experience is based at the Farington Waste Recovery Park. Its immersive learning journey is similar to a science discovery centre and showcases what happens to our waste, with a focus on recycling.
Nine pupils from Royal Cross Primary School for Deaf Children joined Lancashire County Council leader Phillippa Williamson and councillors Shaun Turner and Jayne Rear, along with members of the waste team and Lancashire Renewables, for a tour of the new attraction, which will offer engaging exhibits and hands-on activities from February 20.
After enjoying the tour, children were also thrilled to be given donated books to take back to school with them.
Councillor Williamson said: “We’re hoping that schools, community groups and members of the public will come along to find out more about reducing waste, reusing items and moving away from a throwaway culture.
“We hope that they will be able to leave here able to make better and more sustainable environmental choices.”
Young visitors will benefit from interactive exhibits that encourage recycling habits, while high school students, community groups and members of the public can all engage with advanced learning displays and knowledgeable tour guides.
The facility, run by Lancashire Renewables on behalf of Lancashire County Council, will first open their door to school visits. Later in the year, community groups and members of the public can also book on, helping visitors to gain insights into waste management, dispelling myths and sharing how to reduce waste and recycle more.
The walkway features graphic panels, digital screens, and interactive exhibits across three key areas, as well as the Arty Avenue, where schoolchildren’s artwork promotes sustainable habits. The initiative aims to foster long- term behaviour change towards sustainability.
Lisa Dewhurst, teacher at Royal Cross Primary School for Deaf Children, said: “All of the children really enjoyed the visit to the Walkway. They have been learning about recycling and how they can help to make a difference at home. It was fantastic for them to enjoy a hands-on experience and for them to physically see what happens to their recycling once it leaves their homes.
“We will definitely be promoting the Walkway experience to other schools. It is very accessible and something that all children can enjoy learning about. Our pupils really enjoyed seeing their own artwork on display today as well, which was a great way for them to see real purpose in the work that they have been doing.”
