In March, 13 Mönchengladbach School Classes Collected Nearly 12 Tons of E-Waste, Sending a Strong Message for Resource Conservation and Sustainability
Mönchengladbach students turn e-waste into prizes and education
First place went to Karl Barthold School, which earned 3,426 points—not by collecting the most kilograms of discarded electronics, but by gathering a large quantity of RAM modules and hard drives for a humanitarian project, securing valuable bonus points. In recognition of their commitment, Mayor Felix Heinrichs, GEM Managing Director Jens Hostenbach, and Clean-up MG board member Isabella Kleeschulte presented the winning school with a €1,000 donation check and the Mission E-Waste Trophy.
Beyond the top-placed Karl Barthold School, two other schools stood out with outstanding collection results.
Will-Sommer Elementary School (TSO Broich) claimed second place with 2,607 points, earning €700 for its class fund.
In third place, with 1,934 points, Will-Sommer Elementary School received a €300 prize for its class fund.
Participants collected a wide range of items, including old small appliances, gaming consoles, cables, and broken electronics. Before the campaign, all classes received an introductory session on e-waste, raw materials, and recycling. The initiative aims to raise awareness among children and teens about responsible resource use while providing hands-on environmental education.