How to Identify Public Relation Opportunities for Recycle Programs

Recycling protects the environment.

In the age of the Internet, putting out a message that gets attention can be quite a challenge. There are many outlets available to publicize your recycling program, whether it's organizing events at your school, contacting reporters, or using social media tools. The best way to figure out which marketing methods will work best for your program is by looking at the campaigns of similar organizations and programs.

Instructions

1. Contact local schools and universities to learn about recycling or environmental programs offered. Since budgets may be restricted, small programs like these may use social media, the school newspaper, and marketing hand-outs like brochures to promote the program. Speak to those in charge to learn how they market the program. Seeing how different public relations methods work for a similar organization can help you identify the marketing methods that will work best for yours.

2. Watch news broadcasts and read local newspapers to learn about environmental awareness campaigns or events. You may be able to contact the sponsor of environmental events and promote your program there. Be sure to bring promotional fliers, pins, clothing, or other items to give to those who speak with you. These items can remind your audience about your mission after you're done talking.

3. Network with environmental awareness groups located near your own to promote your organization and learn about other public relations opportunities for the group. Remember that the main goal of public relations is to find an audience interested in your message, and networking with similar programs will ensure that you're reaching an audience that is already interested in the environment.

4. Contact the principals of local schools to see if they have any environmental awareness events or programs. If they do, ask if your organization and those you're affiliated with can speak to students or participate. Contact the sponsors of similar organizations before volunteering their time.

5. Use social media to reach your audience and begin inviting your friends, encouraging your friends to invite those they believe would be interested in the cause. Social media helps get your message out, but it also helps you interact with your audience. This interaction can help you shape the future of your program and address any special needs or concerns of your audience.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact local organizations that may be interested in recycling programs, like those devoted to "green" technology, to see if you can hold a promotional event.

• Public relations opportunities exist in any medium that enables you to send your message to an audience. Consider using newspapers, radio broadcasts, blogs, social media, the local news, local politicians, and family and friends to promote your recycling program.

References

• Free Management Library: "Designing and Marketing your Programs"
• Alexander Hiam: "Marketing for Dummies"; John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.; 2006.