Eastbourne school creates environmental mural from 6,000 plastic lids

The idea for the mural came about after parent and volunteer at Parkland School Cristina Staicu came across crafting ideas using plastic lids – and thought of using them on a much larger scale.

Friends of Parkland School member Mrs Staicu said, “Parkland School is aiming to become a green school and we’re trying different, fun ways of recycling unwanted plastic waste.

“The school has been awarded Silver Eco School status and we came up with the idea of creating a mural using plastic lids for the children and teachers to enjoy.

“The mural represents the knowledge children can discover through reading and the importance of keeping our planet clean.

“There’s a big book opened in the middle and lots of different topics are coming out of it, as a smiling Earth and a colourful rainbow are taking the central point.

“We used eco-friendly materials such as plywood for the base and recycled paints.

“We hope this project will inspire other schools to create their own recycled art. As far as we know, our mural is the first of its kind in Eastbourne area.

“It took me more than 60 hours to complete, but it’s been a fun challenge.”

Friends of Parkland School, a group of parents who look to raise money for the school while organising events, is planning more exciting eco projects and fun activities for the children at the Brassey Avenue school, according to Mrs Staicu.

Friends of Parkland School organised the collection of the plastic lids and offered Mrs Staicu all the necessary materials including wooden boards, recycled paints and screws.

Mrs Staicu said, “We had a massive lid donation from Morrisons and also everyone at school (children, teachers and school staff) contributed in collecting the lids.

“For this mural I used more than 6,000 lids, but we still have plenty which we’re planing to use for one more mural in the Junior’s school playground. The theme will be celebrating friendship.”