Seven pupils from Selwood Academy’s ‘energy group’ recently visited the Carymoor Environmental Centre, near Castle Cary, to find out about where our rubbish goes and how it can be used to generate electricity.
The trip was part of Frome Town Council’s and FRECo’s work with local schools to help reduce energy costs and emissions.
At Carymoor the group found out that the original landfill site was the size of 55 football pitches, (100 acres), however that is now full, so another 100 acres is currently being filled. The first 100 acres took 30 years to fill, but it is expected that we will fill the second 100 acres in only 15 years!
One pupil, Thomas said, “It was very surprising how much waste North East Somerset alone produces.”
Lucas said, “The landfill was disgusting, but it was also interesting to see how rubbish is dealt with.”
The group was surprised by the range of wildlife that lives there; they saw tracks from deer, badger and crows. Partridges and wagtails were seen and everyone was amazed at the starling murmuration over the tipping face.
Oliver and Lucas both thought that it was really interesting that rotting rubbish can produce so much leachate (bin juice). It looked like chocolate mousse; however nobody wanted to try it!
The rotting rubbish also gives off methane and carbon dioxide gas. This is used to generate electricity for 1,500 houses nearby, (three megawatts in total).
Anne Travers, the lead teacher at Selwood said, “It was a great and interesting experience and made everyone more aware of where our rubbish goes and why it is so important to recycle where possible.”
Frome Town Council is keen to work with other schools to offer similar support. Get in contact with Anna Francis: francisa@frometowncouncil.gov.uk or call 01373 475574 to find out more.
