At Wastebuster, we’re passionate about nurturing young eco-innovators. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce this year’s Climate Enterprise Award, a unique social enterprise challenge that empowers students to develop innovative solutions for tackling the growing issue of electronic waste (e-waste). 

The E-Waste Challenge 

In our technology-driven world, gadgets become obsolete quickly, leading to a surge in discarded electronics. The UK produces approximately 1.45 million tonnes of e-waste annually, but only 38% is recycled. Many small electrical items, such as mobile phones, hairdryers, electric toothbrushes, and chargers, end up in landfills, contributing to environmental hazards. Educating students on responsible e-waste management is vital for building a sustainable future. 

Inspiring Innovation Through Competition 

The Climate Enterprise Award invites students aged 11-14 in West Sussex to: 

• Promote the reuse or improved recycling of small electrical items. 
• Introduce new and innovative approaches. 
• Develop solutions that serve the local community in West Sussex. 
• Lead the project themselves. 

The winning idea will receive a £500 grant, expert mentoring, and support to bring their project to life. 

Curriculum Connections 

Participating in this challenge aligns with key curriculum areas and can also be introduced as an exciting extra-curricular activity that builds key skills for future study and careers: 

• Geography & Science: Exploring waste management and environmental sustainability. 
• Design & Technology: Encouraging problem-solving and design thinking. 
• PSHE & Citizenship: Fostering teamwork, leadership, and community engagement.  

Why E-Waste Recycling Matters 

Recycling e-waste helps to: 

• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions – Using recycled metals to make new products cuts CO₂ emissions by up to 86%. 
• Prevent harmful pollution – Electricals in landfills release toxic substances like lead and mercury, which can contaminate soil and water. 
• Conserve valuable resources – Many electronic items contain precious metals such as gold, silver, and copper, which can be recovered and reused. 

Learning from Past Successes 

Previous Climate Enterprise Award winners have tackled key sustainability challenges: 

• 2023: Bodyn from Bohunt Horsham tackled food waste within his school community. His project led to the creation of the Best Practice Guide for School Food Waste Management, a resource to help schools reduce their food waste effectively.  

• 2024: Emilia from Bourne Community College launched a sewing club that upcycled pre-loved textiles into tote bags. Her initiative inspired the Sew it, Mend it, Make it resources, which provide guidance on sustainable textile practices.  

This year, the focus is on e-waste—can your students create the next award-winning idea? 

How to Get Involved 

The Climate Enterprise Award site page provides more information including a presentation guide.  

Teachers can also book Wastebuster sessions where we work with your students for one hour to prepare their entries, by emailing info@wastebuster.co.uk.  

Students can submit their project ideas by email to info@wastebuster.co.uk, in one of the following formats: 

• A written document (max two sides of A4). 
• A 2-5 slide presentation. 
• A 30-second video pitch. 

New Deadline for Entries: Earth Day – 22 April 2025 

Join the Movement 

The Climate Enterprise Award is more than just a competition—it’s a platform for young minds to make a real-world impact. We encourage secondary schools across West Sussex to take part, support student innovation, and drive positive environmental change. 

For more information and to register your school, visit the Climate Enterprise Award page today. Let’s empower the next generation to turn today’s waste into tomorrow’s solutions!