What Are Some Items That Could Be Easily Recycled at Schools?

Teach recycling early

School programs can help teach children how to recycle and reinforce the value of recycling. They can also provide ways to collect items that aren't normally included in home recycling efforts. The types of recyclables and collection methods depend upon local recycling laws and the requirements set by the waste management company serving the school and community. Most companies will provide containers and educational materials to encourage compliance with recycling laws and programs.

Cafeteria

Most items recycled at home can be found in a school cafeteria. Items include aluminum cans, glass bottles, plastic, Styrofoam, cardboard and food boxes. Provide separate facilities in the kitchen, which creates different waste than the dining area, such as large food cans, jars and plastic storage containers, corrugated cardboard and paperboard, aluminum cooking trays and other cooking items.

Office

Paper, cardboard and other items collected in the cafeteria can also be collected in the office. Printer ink cartridges can be recycled and are less expensive than new ones. Ask your office supply company if they have an ink cartridge recycling program, or recycle them at a local specialty store. Computers, monitors and other electronics are recyclable as well. You may need to find a specialty recycling company in your community to accept these items, as most recycling haulers typically don't handle them.

Classroom

Waste paper and cardboard are most commonly found in the classroom. You can also provide an outlet for recycling items brought from home, including batteries, clothes, shoes and toys, cell phones, hearing aids and glasses. Textbooks can be recycled at school bookstores. Bicycles can also be recycled for use by other students or donated to charity. Work with the waste management company for the best ways to collect and dispose of these items. Children can recycle unneeded school supplies for less fortunate children. Empty paint containers and aerosol cans are also recyclable. Ask the recycling company about the proper disposal of solvents, glues and other substances used in art, metal and woodworking classes.

Loading Dock

Canned goods and other supplies delivered to the cafeteria, as well as furniture and other durable goods, are usually packed in corrugated cardboard boxes and moved on wooden or plastic pallets. Both the cardboard and pallets are recyclable.

References

• American Forest and Paper Association:
• Recycle Works: Setting up a School Waste Reduction and Recycling Program

Resources

• Environmental Protection Agency: Waste and Recycling