Monster masks, musical instruments and superhero puppets made of old packaging are being created by Bournemouth children as schools become even greener.

Bournemouth Council is stepping up environmental education with a pack of lesson plans and activities to help primary school teachers highlight the importance of minimising waste and maximising recycling.

The Wise Up 2 Waste pack, which is sponsored by Marks & Spencer, has been developed to complement the National Curriculum and is being distributed to schools throughout the borough.

Recycling bins have also been introduced to almost every school and the Council carries out free collections.

Councillor Robert Lawton, Cabinet member for the environment, said: “Our recycling collections in school prevent around 18tonnes of waste per month going to landfill.

“The Wise up to Waste Pack aims to introduce good recycling habits early on so we can protect the environment for future generations. It reinforces the positive steps many families already take at home to reduce their environmental impact.”

Activities include recycling games, activities such as making recycled paper and lesson plans including packaging surveys. The pack features information about global warming, where our waste goes, reducing, reusing, recycling and composting waste.

For a copy of the pack contact 01202 451619 or email recycle@bournemouth.gov.uk