Schools take on Collect-a-Can challenge

Over and above the prize money to be won during the year, schools are also paid per kilogram of cans collected - an easy and guaranteed initiative for schools to generate money, while making a difference.

"We have seen so many schools that have used their prize money to fund their school nutritional programmes, to purchase furniture or books for their schools and to build or develop their science or computer labs," says Zimasa Velaphi, Marketing and Public Relations Manager of Collect-a-Can.

Value in waste

The can recovery and recycling organisation has been working closely with schools for 22 years to teach them the importance of recycling and that waste has value.

There are two main categories, one for larger schools with more than 500 learners and a second category for smaller schools with 500 or less learners, which ensures that all schools can have an opportunity to participate and stand a chance to win.

Collect-a-Can hosts prize-giving ceremonies annually where representatives from winning schools receive recognition for placing one of three places in their category and region. "We will be handing over certificates and trophies at our exciting regional events in Gauteng, Western Cape, Kwazulu-Natal during November 2015," adds Velaphi.

Aluminium vs steel

Schools are encouraged to sort their cans into piles of aluminium and steel to ensure that they receive the best possible rate per kilogram for their cans. "It's very easy to sort your cans. Place a magnet against the can and if it sticks it's a steel can; aluminium cans won't stick to the magnet," she mentions.

"We would like to challenge all schools, big or small, to participate in our schools competition. It's an easy way to generate a viable income, while keeping the environment clean and green for our future generations," concludes Velaphi.