Australian students show the way and Clean Up

Media Release - 27 February 2009

More than half a million students across the country today lent a hand to help Clean Up Australia as part of the 2009 Schools Clean Up Day.

Early estimates suggest that students from 2400 schools could have removed as much as 2,880 tonnes of rubbish from the environment.

Clean Up Australia Chairman Ian Kiernan AO said the efforts of the country’s students is a promising sign for the future.

“It’s estimated that almost 2,880 tonnes tonnes of rubbish has today been removed by students across the country. That’s 2,880 tonnes tonnes of rubbish that thanks to the hard work of our schools is no longer rubbishing our environment,” Mr Kiernan said.

“Judging by the huge turnout and the massive effort our kids have put in today, it looks as though the future health of our environment is in good hands.

“The students that got involved in today’s Clean Up are an inspiration to the rest of the country to get out and lend a hand this Sunday as part of Clean Up Australia Day.

“I know many of the kids involved today will be back out again on Sunday with their families. It’s a good sign for the future that our younger generation has such a keen interest in protecting our environment.

“Schools Clean Up Day, the action of which is linked back into curriculum in all states, is an opportunity to not only physically clean up the nation’s schools and surrounding areas but also to clearly show our kids that their personal impact on Australia’s beautiful environment can be reduced.

“It is important that the environment becomes something that we care for and consider in our everyday lives. Participating in Clean Up Australia is the first step towards improving our environment. After all, if you don’t help Clean Up Australia, who will?”

Anyone can still get involved in Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday 1 March by visiting www.cleanup.org.au or by calling 1800 CUAD DAY (1800 282 329).

Clean Up Australia Day has been made possible through the support of major sponsors: McDonald's, Veolia Environnement and Commonwealth Bank, sponsors: Sanyo, suppliers: Pro Safety Gear, Qantas, Shop-A-Docket and Stockland.


Further information or interviews:    Alana Mew, 0423 377 567