LLANBERIS pupils are helping to promote a green scheme as school kitchens across Gwynedd bid to reduce single-use plastic and non-recyclable materials.

The ambitious arrangements are being made by Gwynedd Council's education department as part of environmental efforts.

Ysgol Dolbadarn, Llanberis is one of the primary schools that has been getting involved.

The council is introducing a new scheme where milk is purchased in a large container and poured it into cups, rather than providing small cartons that can only be used once. The change means a 67% reduction plastic use.

Councillor Cemlyn Rees Jones, Gwynedd Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, said: “As a Council, we are committed to reducing waste going to landfill and ensuring that we look after our environment responsibly.

“Over recent months, children and young people here in Gwynedd and beyond have shown their clear views as part of the global action against climate change.

“It is clear that our young people have a real desire to make a positive difference for the benefit of the environment and it’s great to see that they are involved in discussions locally in schools to make practical changes that can make a real difference. ”

The Gwynedd education department is urging the county’s secondary schools not to buy plastic drinks bottles for sale and instead provide jugs and cups of water at lunchtime. They also want school water fountains installed so pupils can full up reusable bottles.

Secondary schools are involving pupils, cooks and often senior management team members to look into issues such as nutrition and menus and ideas to reduce the use of plastics

Schools are being urged to avoid using any type of plastic or ‘styrofoam’eliminate plastic straws and use cardboard or paper.

Councillor Jones added: “It’s great to see our schools doing such positive work in this vital area.

“The enthusiasm of the children and staff has been important in bringing about this change and we thank them for their commitment.”