THE "energy-from-waste" company is launching a science and technology programme for school pupils.

Viridor, which last year signed a 25-year deal with Glasgow City Council for a recycling centre on the South Side, is urging teenagers to consider a career in the environment sector.

The recycling giant has joined the Engineering Development Trust's (EDT) Go4SET programme to give practical experience to school students in Glasgow over the next two years.

Steven Don, Scottish Regional Manager for Viridor, said: "Over the next two years, we will be working with secondary schools in Glasgow to bring the waste and recycling industry to life and to promote the importance of establishing a cleaner, greener Glasgow in line with the Scottish Government's Zero Waste targets.

"We look forward to working with the EDT to deliver an engaging, rewarding and practical learning experience for pupils and to discovering possible future stars of the industry."

The Go4SET programme links teams of second-year pupils with companies and universities to offer hands-on, 10-week science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) experience. The aim is to change pupils' perceptions of those subjects and boost the number of young people entering the fields.

Viridor bosses claims the work will support the City Council's aim to turn Glasgow into Europe's most sustainable city.

Council Leader, Gordon Matheson, said: "We want to see more of Glasgow's young people engaged with science and engineering. I'm delighted to see Viridor getting involved."