If every school just replaced their tops with recycled plastic panels like this —

we’d stop over 10,000 tonnes of plastic going to landfill every year in Aotearoa.

Manurewa High School did it first.

They swapped out MDF and laminate — both high-carbon, short-life materials —

for Critical. Cleanstone, made entirely from 100% recycled plastic waste.

Every tabletop here was once packaging, milk bottles, even fishing nets —

reimagined into a surface that lasts for decades, not just one school term.

And unlike traditional MDF, which chips and swells over time,

Cleanstone is built to last lifelong.

At the end of its life, it’s recycled again —

turned back into another Cleanstone panel or tabletop.

But they didn’t stop at tables.

They built this beautiful reception wall too —

inspired by the whakapapa of Manurewa.

Each colour represents connection to the whenua, moana, and community.

That’s what future-focused education looks like.

Spaces that don’t just look good — they teach values just by being in the room.

Less landfill.

Lower carbon.

And a story students can be proud of.

If you’re a principal or designer planning your next classroom or campus upgrade, let’s kōrero.

Jump on criticaldesign.nz and I’ll help you design your next project using 100% recycled materials — built to last, and made right here in Aotearoa.

Tēnā koē Pete Jones and the Manurewa High School whānau for leading the charge!!