Students help markets become eco-friendly
A team of enthusiastic students from the University of the Sunshine Coast have boosted Eumundi Markets’ bid to become the most ecologically-friendly market in Australia.
The students – who recently won $1,500 in a national Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) competition for their involvement in a variety of community projects – suggested ways for the markets to become cleaner and greener.
Eumundi Markets general manager Peter Homan said he was impressed by the students’ involvement as consultants for the markets, particularly by their suggestions for compostable packaging.
“They conducted research with food stall holders and gave a report that initiated significant changes for waste disposal to be implemented at the markets,” he said.
Mr Homan said some of the SIFE team’s suggestions would be introduced immediately.
“We are very happy with the partnership and hope to continue working with USC students,” he said.
As well as assisting Eumundi Markets, the University’s SIFE team also helped a Fijian village to develop sustainable eco-tourism, and taught students at several Sunshine Coast schools about marketing.
SIFE team president Phoebe Brown said these projects had helped the University students develop leadership, teamwork and communication skills.
“SIFE projects involve students in opportunities to make a difference to local communities while connecting them to future employers,” she said.
— Kerry Brown