School Recycling Program

Steps for Beginning a School Waste Reduction & Recycling Program

  1. Establish planning committee.
  2. Select a committee coordinator.
  3. Evaluate waste stream at school:

a. What types of waste

b. How much of each (estimate)

c. Current cost, volume and frequency of waste pick-up

4. Identify local recycling facilities and available haulers for materials (including hauling it yourself).

5. Decide on which materials to be reduced and recycled.

a. Based on #3 above

b. Also based on information from recycling facilities and haulers regarding what is accepted.

6. Determine what material and equipment needs are.

a. Classroom containers or boxes?

b. Outside containers – provided by hauler?

c. Educational materials

7. Develop a budget.

a. Current costs vs. proposed

b. Potential savings from reduced waste pick-up

c. Materials, equipment, hauling, etc.

d. Reimbursement for materials?

8. Look at funding Options.

a. Illinois Dept. of Commerce and Community Affairs (DCCA) – School Recycling and Waste Reduction Grants are usually due in January of each year.

b. Ogle County Solid Waste Management Department Waste Reduction/Recycling Grants are available in March of each year.

c. Grant from local business or industry?

d. School budget

9. Establish a system for collecting and storing materials.

a. Keep it simple and organized

b. Ample storage space?

c. Involve the students!

10. Establish school goals.

a. Set achievable goals

b. Monitor what and how much is collected (students?)

c. Share/promote results

11. Educate school and community about the program.

a. Students, teachers, administrators, maintenance

b. PTO, civic groups

c. In class instructions and curriculum – required for DCCA grants

12. Obtain containers.

13. Arrange collection and transportation of materials.

14. Re-evaluate the program and acknowledge/reward participants.