Recycling competition for schools solar power prize

Solar powered weather stations and eco-gardens are being offered as rewards for the school in Essex which collects the most plastic bottles for recycling per pupil.

The campaign, set up by Basildon Council and the Go Green 4 Schools campaign will see the first place school get a garden featuring a solar powered fountain, as well as a weather station.

The eco-garden, which will include bird feeders, frog and toad houses, ladybird centres and nesting sites, will be tended to by the students of the winning school.

Runners up will also receive a weather station powered by photovoltaic solar panels.

Terri Sargent, Basildon Council’s cabinet member for environment, told the Echo newspaper: "This is a brilliant chance for schools to win a prize which will produce a lot of fun as well as encouraging youngsters to learn more about the world around them.

"All those taking part will get a lot out of the competition and perhaps pick up new ideas on how to go green and set up special projects for their own schools."

Go Green 4 Schools helps schools raise money to combat climate change and carbon emissions.