News

At the end of January, the LIFE integrated project “Waste to Resources Latvia IP” organized training sessions for Eco-school teachers. During these sessions, representatives of educational institutions from across Latvia discussed sustainable solutions for waste reduction in schools. Special attention was given to implementing circular economy principles in the education process, as well as to experience exchange between schools and practical solutions.

Main Topics Discussed:

● Reducing Food Waste in Schools – Juta Dekšne, a representative of Rēzekne Academy of Technologies, shared research findings and solutions to help reduce food waste in schools.

● Circular Economy Roadmap and Benefits of the LIFE Project – Sandija Svarupa, an expert from the Ministry of Climate and Energy, introduced the developed circular economy roadmap and national goals based on various best practice examples that can be implemented by the public, private, and non-governmental sectors.

● Best Practices in Schools – Ingūna Salmiņa, a teacher from Riga Primary School "Rīdze," shared the school’s experience and practical steps for actively involving students in waste reduction.

● Challenges and Solutions in Waste Management – In group discussions, teachers analyzed current issues in educational institutions, discussed possible solutions, and developed best practice models to facilitate more effective waste sorting and reduction in schools.

● Waste Monitoring and Audits – Participants learned about school waste audit methods, discussed result interpretation, and explored ways to use the collected data in waste reduction strategies.

By 2025, targeted measures must be taken in the country to reduce waste volume and ensure that at least 55% of household waste is recycled. Therefore, every resident of Latvia has a duty to participate in the separate collection of household waste. To promote environmentally friendly habits and strengthen students' understanding of the circular economy, closer cooperation between schools, parents, and municipalities is essential. In the coming months, winter and spring waste audits are planned, along with various educational activities, including hackathons and Zero Waste Day events, which will help schools implement sustainable waste management solutions more effectively.