In a transformational step, Zoomlion Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility wing of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, has introduced Football Zero Waste Initiative, aimed at providing training and education to children on proper sanitation and sustainable waste management practices through football games.
Since its inception, the initiative has reached 17 schools and 4380 students as well as several community members in LaNkwantanang Madina Municipality and Shai Osudoku District. For years, the Zoomlion Foundation observed a troubling trend in schools across Ghana in a sense that, after every football match or outdoor activity, plastic sachets, bottles, and snack wrappers littered the fields.
As part of the Initiative’s mission, a football and an exhibition fair was organised, where the foundation brought together students from LaNkwantanang Cluster of Schools (1 – 5) and Redco Cluster of Schools (1 & 2) in a fun-filled day of environmental awareness, sports and creativity.
A major highlight of the event was the emphasis on environmental sustainability and proper sanitation practices after an exciting football tournament. Before and after the game, the students were educated on the importance of keeping their school compounds and surroundings clean, and the benefits of recycling.
Another highlight was the creativity segment, where the students were encouraged to use materials such as plastic, paper, and other waste to create innovative items. The results were astonishing, with model cars, stadium foundations, houses, flowers, and other creative projects on display. This exercise not only showcased the students’ artistic talents but also spotlighted the potential for creative reuse and recycling.
Throwing more light on the Sanitation initiative, Head of the Foundation, Thomas Korley explained that Football Zero Waste is meant to give assistance to limit students’ littering during games in their schools and outside their schools. This is important because over the years, we have realised that school children litter a lot when they are participating in games.” He points that the initiative not only provides valuable support to local schools but also promotes environmental awareness among students.
Through collaborative efforts with the children, the Foundation ensures that litter generated during games is collected and properly disposed of. They are also educated on the importance of responsible waste disposal, fostering a sense of responsibility and environmental consciousness.
With continuous implementation, Zoomlion Foundation believes that these children will develop good habits and become more mindful of their waste management practices during games and beyond.
To properly sustain the initiative, Mr. Korley noted that the Foundation has made available recycling stations and waste bins for this initiative. During each game, these bins will be placed strategically, and educational announcements will be made to promote proper waste disposal. After the game, the area will be assessed for litter, and all waste generated will be collected and plastics recycled. To motivate participation, the Foundation awards winners of the ‘Football Zero Waste Initiative’ competitions and provides sanitation logistics to participants who contribute to cleaning efforts.
“Our ultimate aim is that Children will build consciousness to know where they are throwing their litter and realise the consequences that come with it like: flooding, choked drains, mosquito breeding and so on…” Achieving this will foster sustainable development and help our communities to be Cleaner and Healthier.
