Robert Townson Public School students have designed artworks that highlight the crucial connection between stormwater drains and rivers.
With assistance from Campbelltown Council, the designs were turned into stickers that will be placed on kerbs above stormwater inlet pits around the perimeter of the school.
The stickers use a technique known as asphalt art, which provides exceptional adherence to rough roads and pavements.
The aim of the project is to promote the importance of reducing pollution and keeping our drains and waterways clean.
Working with council’s environmental education officer, students learned what a catchment is, how stormwater systems work, and how stormwater travels through drains into streams, creeks and rivers.
The students were then invited to design stormwater drain stencils, using their own slogans and artwork.
The aim of the artworks was to help raise awareness among local residents of the importance of keeping our stormwater drains clean.
Mayor of Campbelltown, Cr Paul Hawker, said the project gave students a practical understanding of how stormwater systems work.
[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“Waterways like the Georges River are the arteries of our environment, so we need to ensure that the water that flows into them is free from pollution and contaminates,” Cr Hawker said.[/social_quote]
“Stormwater pollution threatens the survival of fish and other aquatic life that depend on healthy waterways.
“Contaminants such as chemicals from pesticide and paints, and nutrients from fertilisers and detergents, can cause salinity, reduced water quality and algal blooms.
“Through this project, students are learning about the importance of protecting our local waterways while promoting good environmental practice to the wider community,” Cr Hawker said.
Students from Blairmount Public School, The Grange Public School and Macquarie Fields Public School have previously been involved in the project, which is progressively being rolled out to more schools throughout the Campbelltown Local Government Area.
Residents can help prevent stormwater pollution by correctly disposing of litter and garden waste, ensuring chemicals and other harmful waste residue are not allowed to enter the stormwater system, and keeping a clean and tidy streetscape.
For more information on stormwater and how to maintain healthy waterways, visit council’s website.
