Global recycling - Matthew Rees
For the last four years, learner Matthew Rees has been collecting and recycling cans to raise money for Velindre, a charity that means a lot to him. He crushes the cans himself, weighs them in, and on average raises an incredible £2,000 each year!
Matthew doesn’t stop at cans either. He also collects crisp packets, which get melted down and turned into things like park benches and foil blankets—so nothing goes to waste.
What’s really lovely is how everyone around him gets involved. His classmates, staff, friends, and pretty much anyone who knows Matthew save up their cans and packets to pass on to him. It’s become a whole community effort.
As we celebrate Global Recycling Awareness Day, Matthew’s hard work reminds us how small actions can add up to something brilliant—for the environment and for charity.
Huge well done, Matthew! Keep it going—you’re making a real difference.
Posted on 17/03/2026