Pupils at Kennet School in Thatcham stop sale of single-use plastic water bottles from canteen

Pupils at a school in Thatcham are taking action against plastic waste.

Pupil-led action at Kennet School has stopped the sale of plastic bottles from its main and outdoor canteen.

The green initiative was introduced in September last year.

Pupils and staff are now encouraged to use reusable water bottles.

And each pupil in Year 7 to Year 11 is gifted one at the start of the academic year.

The school’s water refill stations and Generation Juice machines provide easy access to drinking water without the need for single-use plastic.

Since these were implemented in September, the school and new caterer Innovate have sold 7,393 drinks via these machines.

This translates to around 500 bottles saved from landfill each week.

The school said this accomplishment reinforces its dedication to actively contributing to environmental conservation.

Headteacher Grace Rigg said: “We are thrilled to announce this decisive step towards a plastic-free future.

“Kennet believes in leading by example, and our decision to eliminate plastic bottle sales is a testament to our commitment to environmental stewardship.

“This initiative aligns with our broader mission of instilling a sense of responsibility and eco-consciousness in our pupils and staff.”

The school says that on average, UK schools use an estimated 100,000 drinks bottles annually.

This is enough to fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool.

But Kennet’s current sales trend indicates 20,000 to 30,000 drinks – via refill stations – will be sold this academic year.

It says it is committed to improving uptake through key messages, urging pupils and staff to use their water bottles and highlighting the environmental benefits of choosing eco-friendly options.