Twelve new recycling stations will be set up at Thanet’s main bathing beaches, featuring drawings by local schoolchildren.
The project was led by the Rotary Clubs of Thanet, in conjunction with Thanet District Council and Southern Water. It increases the recycling capacity of waste bins along the Isle’s coastline and aims to make beach users aware of the environmental benefits of recycling.
Each new unit will contain a 360L wheelie bin and feature pro-recycling decorations from some of Thanet’s youngest residents on either side, in addition to informative signage on the front.
Children from Garlinge, Newington and Haddon Dene schools took part in a competition to design the artwork and the winning designs are featured on the bins.
Cllr Ash Ashbee, Thanet District Council Leader, said: “Keeping our local beaches clean is a real priority for us. We are very pleased to have worked with the Rotary Clubs of Thanet and Southern Water to provide better recycling opportunities along our beaches and promenades, in time for the summer season.
“It was a great opportunity to involve some of Thanet’s schoolchildren in spreading such a positive message, and we are really pleased with the results. We look forward to continuing our work with community groups to help keep our beautiful coastlines looking their best.
Caroline Winzer and Beverley Aitken, of Rotary in Thanet, said: “Rotary works for the benefit of local communities across the UK and we are particularly pleased at the opportunity to combine all five clubs in Thanet in this one initiative.
“Our new focus area is the environment and these recycling stations illustrate how communities can come together to make real change. The children’s colorful drawings will draw attention to our message to recycle to protect the environment, and we look forward to more collaborative projects in the future.
Recycling stations will be present at each end of Viking Bay and Ramsgate Main Sands, in addition to two double units at each end of Margate Main Sands. Units will also be installed in Minnis Bay, West Bay, St. Mildred’s Bay and Westbrook Bay.
If you want to learn more about Rotary and the many projects it is involved in, or to join as a volunteer, member or friend, you can find out more on its Facebook page.