Students from The Rural Enterprise Academy have enjoyed a visit to the UK headquarters of a leading global environmental company.

Veolia, a leader in environmental solutions and one of the three partners that created the UK’s first dedicated rural academy, played host to the Academy students as part of their studies.

In a series of three visits, the students enjoyed tours of the Materials Recovery and Energy Recovery facilities and heard how Veolia help cities and industries to manage, optimize and make the most of their resources. The company provides an array of solutions related to water, energy and materials.

During the visit the students were asked how they felt about caring for the environment. "It was really interesting to see what happens to the rubbish from when it leaves my house” said Rebecca Cunningham (aged 14 from Burntwood).

Academy tutor Sophie McVicar accompanied the groups to the Veolia site. “The students have learned some of the ways they can protect the environment and in particular optimise waste recovery. Veolia has been a perfect host and they can rest assured that the students will take this knowledge with them through their adult lives”, she commented.