How To Start a Recycling Program in Your School or Office

We all want a clean planet, but people still need information, money, and motivation – and, of course, leaders like you.

Instructions

• Step 1: Coordinate a system of color-coded bins and signage for locations which will be announced and advertised throughout the school and/or business community.
• Step 2: Educate the community, school, or office about the program. Provide illustrations and documentation.
• Step 3: Work toward providing recycling receptacles in each classroom or office. Getting more people involved lightens your burden and ensures that the program will continue on its own.
• FACT: By 2007, 4,600 waste sites were handling over half a million tons of hazardous chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing materials and industrial waste annually.
• TIP: Use proceeds from can and bottle returns to buy recycling bins and containers for those willing who can’t yet afford them.
• Step 4: Document savings and report them to your community trash service. Emphasize the benefits of your concept and raise money on behalf of your cause.
• TIP: Check out earth911.org to find out about local recycling programs, by typing in your zip code.
• Step 5: Research costs for haulers. Compare these to expenses to install equipment for a drop-off location and choose the most affordable and likely to succeed.
• Step 6: Advertise and network to assemble like-minded volunteers from the community and public works departments. Through this team, evaluate local markets for recyclables and establish your program.
• TIP: Get approval from the fire marshal for your locations and storage plans.
• Step 7: Investigate local recycling resources and facilities to learn how to organize and separate recyclables.