The British Aerosol Manufacturer’s Association has funded the second in a series of children’s recycling books, written by Hydrokem Aerosol’s Andy Hickin. 

Named ‘Mr Shufflebottom’s Garden Adventure’, Andy’s latest book helps children learn how to recycle aerosol containers. Following the publication of Andy’s original recycling book for children, ‘Walter the Wheelie Bin and Friends’, Andy was invited by BAMA’s Chief Executive, Patrick Heskins to write the aerosol-focussed edition. 

Patrick says: “I was impressed with just how engaging Andy’s stories are for children and how they would be the perfect platform for communicating recycling messages about aerosols. Reaching out to a young audience encourages positive attitudes and behaviours towards the environment early on for consumers of the future.”  

As well as creating a fun storyline on the types of materials that can be disposed of in curb side bins, the ‘Mr Shufflebottom’ book also features branded WD-40 cans. Andy says: “I was delighted when WD-40 endorsed the book, it’s a huge accomplishment and I’m very grateful for their input. I’d also like to thank BAMA for its support and for funding the publishing of the book.”  

Dr Alina Darragh, Global Environmental Program Director at WD-40 and Chair of the BAMA Board of Directors, says: “It’s been a pleasure to be involved with Andy’s book and to see WD-40 featured – aerosol recycling is an important area for everyone within our industry. The way in which the simplicity of recycling aerosols is explained so effectively to young readers reminds us of the value behind storytelling.” 

The story behind the stories 

Speaking on the background to the book series, Andy, who uses the pseudonym Walter Thomas, says the original idea is 18 years old. It came from his father-in-law, Dr Michael O’Neill who used to read the stories to his grandchildren from a simple A4 piece of paper. 

After getting the go ahead from Michael to develop the stories, Andy added characters, Recycle Ralph and Tracy the Trowel to the first edition of the book. It has since become a personal endeavour for Andy to continue to work on the books in Michael’s memory. 

He says: “The main aim of the book is to get young readers into the mindset of recycling and looking after our planet as the norm. This will become second nature as children mature into adults that they will pass on to future generations.”

BAMA member, Hydrokem Aerosols, where Andy works as Purchasing Manager also commented on the latest edition of the book. Managing Director, Richard O’Mahoney said: “It’s exciting to see Andy’s book come to fruition and we commend him for his hard work and success in creating and promoting the books that carry valuable messages for children and help highlight the importance the industry places on sustainability.”