Discovering the hidden dangers in everyday rubbish

What do fake cobwebs, fishing line, sticky tape and bread all have in common?

According to students at Cygnet Primary School, these items can all harm wildlife.

 

During recent Waste and Wildlife workshops, students explored the surprising ways everyday rubbish affects Tasmanian animals and discussed the small actions people can take to help protect them.

For many students, the biggest discoveries were the hidden dangers caused by common household items.

“Fake cobwebs are bad for microbats,” said Reuben.

“Sticky tape is fatal to microbats,” added Mathilda.

Other students were surprised to learn how long rubbish can stay in the environment.

 

“Some rubbish takes years or months to break down while other rubbish takes weeks or days!” Scarlett explained.

The workshops also encouraged students to think critically about human behaviour and waste.

“That humans are SUPER wasteful,” reflected Claire.

Importantly, students didn’t stop at identifying problems — they also shared practical ways they can make a difference in their own communities.

Lucas shared this memorable quote for when we see waste items at the beach:

“Pick up three before you leave the sea.”

Other students spoke about reducing plastic use, picking up rubbish, avoiding leaving fishing line behind, and keeping food scraps away from wildlife.

“I will use bees wax wraps instead of plastic wrap,” said Ella.

Students also reflected on the importance of caring for wildlife responsibly.

“That feeding animals bread is bad for them,” said Avianah, who later added that she would “not feed animals bread any more.”

The workshops highlighted how education can empower young people to become active environmental stewards. Whether it’s picking up rubbish at the beach, creating posters to educate others, or making small changes at home, students showed that protecting wildlife starts with everyday choices.

As Rose simply put it:

“Draw a poster about how to protect wildlife.” 

 

What's next?

The future of wildlife protection and waste reduction is already growing in schools like Cygnet Primary.

The Cygnet Primary School Grade 3/4 students are planning a school clean-up in the very near future. 

If your school or class would like to book in a Waste and Wildlife Workshop, please email [email protected]. 

The Waste and Wildlife program was developed with the support of the Tasmanian Government and the Tasmanian Waste and Resource Recovery Board, and this workshop delivery is funded by Southern Waste Solutions as part of Landcare Tasmania’s Education Program.