Introduction

As the founder of the German Green Party, Petra Kelly once said “If we don’t do the impossible, we shall be faced with the unthinkable.” It is time we answered Kelly’s call to action and set into motion the necessary steps to revitalize the earth, such as, integrating recycling programs within local communities. The simple practice of generating new uses for discarded materials conserves natural resources, reduces air pollution, saves energy and downsizes landfills. For example, if everyone in the country recycled a newspaper a week thirty-six million trees a year would be saved.

There are six steps involved with setting up a recycling program in an educational facility:

Consult a waste collection service Determine what is needed Gather equipment Organize Roll out the program Maintain program

This guide will outline each of these steps in detail and how to use them to implement a successful recycling program.

Step 1: Consult a Waste Collection Service

Before introducing a program determine what type of recycling is possible for the area. Contact the local municipality and find out who collects waste and recyclables for educational facilities in the area. When contacting the municipality evaluate their customer satisfaction and collection costs.

Each community has a different procedure for collecting recyclables. Find out from the waste hauler what the collection requirements are in the area including:

What types of materials are collected How materials are separated What color schemes are used What types of containers are accepted When are materials collected How much does it cost What type of areas work with the collection trucks What happens when the program requirements change

Step 2: Determine What Is Needed

Determine how much and what type of waste is generated in the school. Apply it to the specifications provided by the hauler and the anticipated level of traffic for the area. Together this information will provide what is needed for the recycling program to run. For example, an elementary school may require mid-sized centralized containers or small desk-side bins for each classroom. The type of recycling bin which will work best will depend on how often it will be emptied, the amount of staff contributing to it, student enrolment, possible janitorial services and the size of the area.

A great way to determine what is needed for a recycling program is by seeking the input and approval of those in the space. Applying the advice of administrative staff, teachers and parents can encourage future program use. It can also ensure that an appropriate recycling program is selected by those who will be using it.

Step 3: Gather Recycling Equipment

Now that the specific needs of the program have been determined the equipment can be purchased. Consult a recycling bin manufacturer for program ideas and container solutions. Ensure that the bins selected are easy to use, efficient and environmentally sound.

Easy to use recycling containers should be versatile and custom designed to work with any environment. There are different bin features available which make participation in a recycling program easier such as:

Mountable bins for increased surface space Desk side bins for increased leg room Stackable containers for easy storage Large wheeled or lidded containers for easy transportation

Select the container which makes the most sense for the area it will be placed in.

Containers should feature the correct combination of visual indicators and sorting mechanisms to maximize the ease in use. Use clearly marked labels, shaped deposit slots and different color options.  These tools will allow students, staff and parents to quickly identify what the bin is designed to collect.

Implementing plastic containers which are environmentally sound can assist a recycling program. Select containers which are 100% recyclable, made with a minimum of 35% recycled content and complimented by matching waste baskets. Containers meeting these requirements will maximize the results of a recycling program in an educational facility as they have green solutions built right in.

North American made containers have a reduced impact on the environment. Local products will reduce air pollution resulting from overseas shipping and toxins from foreign containers. Also, if the recycling bins are within arm’s reach they will be easier to replace or distribute in the future should new containers be needed.

Product Recommendations

Busch Systems offers an extensive line of recycling and waste container solutions. The type of bin to select for an educational facility will depend on how it will be used. There are three categories to consider when selecting recycling containers for academic environments: individual, shared and outdoor. Listed below are product recommendations for each category:

Individual recycling containers best service areas occupied by one person, such as, teacher’s desks or workstations. The product best suited for this category is the ‘Deskside Recycling Bin’. The container is custom designed to fit seamlessly under desk drawers and can contain upward of three gallons of recyclables. This bin is also available with a matching waste basket which can be hung alongside of it. Recycling containers designed for shared use target common areas, such as, gymnasiums or staff lounges. The ‘Upright’ Series is ideal for such an environment as it is available in large sizes and uses simplified sorting mechanisms. Children and young adults alike favour this container as its see through design allows them to watch the recycling process take place. Outdoor recycling containers are for exterior facility use, such as, building entrances and schoolyards. The ‘Four in One HD’ recycling bin is best suited for this category as it has various collection slot options and fitted liners. This container consists of four compartments which are all able to collect twenty three gallons of waste or recyclables.

These are only a few of the recycling container solutions offered at Busch. To view the complete line of equally attractive alternatives please visit: www.buschsystems.com.

Step 4: Organize the Recycling Program

After a container is selected it must be incorporated into a well organized recycling program. The first phase of systematizing is assigning a program coordinator. This should be someone in the facility who is interested in taking charge of the program. Once the coordinator is made aware of their responsibilities they can ensure that the recycling program is always running smoothly.

The new candidate can begin their duties by selecting where the containers should go. When deciding where bins should be placed bear in mind other containers which may be in the environment, traffic, capacity and collection. The scheduling of container collection may be the deciding factor in determining where the bins should go. Placement options may be limited depending on the size of the collection vehicle and the accessibility of the area.

Suggested Green initiatives

Once the collection of recyclable material has been arranged other green initiatives can be considered. Listed below are a few suggestions for green practices which educational facilities can perform:

Turning off lights when leaving classrooms Using electronic communications to submit and distribute assignments and reports Encouraging the packing of waste free lunches in reusable containers Setting up a compost Buying recycled materials and supplies

Step 5: Roll Out Program

Following the development of a recycling program is the execution. In order for the program to run productively the end user must be educated on how it operates and explained what the goals are. Rolling out the initiative will get those sharing the space excited about the program and motivated to use it.

Organize a meeting with all staff at the educational facility. Educate the staff on how the program runs, what the goals are, who the program coordinator is and what everyone’s responsibilities are. Have the staff roll out the program to their students in ways that get them motivated to use it. An elementary school teacher for example, could explain how the program works with the introduction of a reward system based on student participation. The winner could be awarded a miniature recycling container full of treats.

Step 6: Maintain Program

Maintaining a recycling program is a critical component to ensuring its longevity and success. A large part of the upkeep process will be the responsibility of the program coordinator. They will need to constantly monitor the effectiveness of the program and find ways to improve it. The coordinator will also be responsible for keeping those in the facility enthused and new staff or students educated on the program procedures.

There are several ways in which a program coordinator can keep up enthusiasm at a school.  For example, the coordinator of a high school could offer incentives to the class and teacher which collects the most recyclables. Having separate incentives for each will encourage teachers to influence student participation. The teachers could motivate students by sending recycling progress reports home and encouraging parents to post them prominently.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the combined usage of the above six steps will enable an educational facility to incorporate an effective recycling program. The program should work toward conserving our natural resources and safeguarding our environment. Ideally, a new recycling program will allow future generations to flourish in what we have instead of flounder in what we have left behind.

Sources:

Alon Tal, Speaking of Earth: Environmental Speeches That Moved The World (USA, 2006) 140.

Waste Reduction Week Canada. 23 Sep. 2009. Environment Canada. http://www.wrwcanada.com

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Go Green in Your Home and Save

Most of the ideas and tips I am about to propose to you have, at sometime, been already put forward to you. Maybe if you know all the facts however it will make more sense to you. I would like to, first and foremost, shatter any myths that living a green lifestyle may invoke. The three main objections as I see them are;

I don’t believe in global warming or greenhouse gases
My  going  green efforts won’t make any difference
It is just too expensive to consider at this time

For those greenhouse gas skeptics, let’s just agree to cleanup the planet, for no other good reason than to restore its beauty. As for thinking your efforts won’t make a difference, you have to look at the fact that you are not alone. It is no longer just a handful of tree huggers, but a global effort backed by millions and millions of followers. Among them are thousands of corporations that only a few years ago would rather pay a fine than have to clean up their act. Of all the excuses, holding on to the concept that it is too expensive to go green, might well be the least credible. As I have stated, I have some ideas that will cost you nothing but effort to implement. I also will suggest some inexpensive and highly effective ways that will start saving you money almost immediately. We will start with the tips that will cost you nothing.

1.Keep a separate trash bag for all recyclable waste and not just the ones you can return for cash. If your municipality doesn’t offer separate recycle bins, call your representative and get a program implemented. They will make money. Also, if you have a garden, discarded fruits and vegetables as well as coffee grounds and egg shells make great mulch.

2.As we all know heating and air-conditioning takes up a great deal of energy and always cause a spike in your energy bill. A simple thing like wearing a sweater in the winter, and lowering the heater, just five degrees can make a big difference. Likewise in the summer turn the air conditioning down. Especially if there are only a couple of you in the house at a time. Fans take up no more energy than the average lamp. If you make these small sacrifices, you will see a big savings on your bill.

3.Start washing your clothes in cold water. Modern powders perform just as efficiently in cold water as hot. Most of the energy that goes into washing clothes is in heating up the water. So you will save on electricity, live green and save money too.

4. On sunny days think about hanging your clothes on an old fashion clothing line. You will not only save money, but your clothes will smell fresher.  

5.Try to consume a little less of everything, from electricity, to gas in the car, to the food you eat. Take time to write out a shopping list, and stick to it. If you feel the impulse to buy something you don’t really need, get into the habit of waiting 24 hours, then review it. The chances are you either won’t want it any more, or will have forgotten all about it.

Well aside from a little effort, I don’t see any outlay of expensive for any of those projects. So now taking the old adage it takes money to make money, let us explore these possibilities. Keep in mind that you will not only recoup  your initial investment, but in a very short time your energy bill will reflect substantial savings.

Two Energy Saving Dynamos

Help Save the Planet and Lower Your Bill
1. Consider getting a new toilet cistern that will use less than two gallons of water per flush. Standard cisterns use about three and a half gallons. Because of plastics, this is no longer a big expense.

2. Compact fluorescent light bulbs are a dream come true for anyone who wants to live green and save money. They burn just 25% of the electricity that a standard light bulb burns, and they can last up to 10 times longer. Change your old bulbs today, or if must be frugal, as the current ones burn out. The two drawbacks that critics used to discredit the fluorescent that being the expense and the difference in lighting  that the bulbs give off,  have greatly diminished. The hue the fluorescent gives off, while still not the same has recently improved. I have seen these bulbs in the local dollar stores, so everyone can now take advantage of them.

Car Conversion, Solar and Wind You Can Do Yourself

What Use to Cost Thousands Can Be Done for Hundreds
If you want to completely go green, it is now possible to do-it-yourself and actually make money in some instances. If you have decided to look into do-it-yourself projects, here are some very affordable ideas for your consideration.

There are basically three options when it comes to converting your car to green.

Bio-diesel and bio-fuels… Are not only stemming the tide of global warming but helping  support American agriculture. You can’t just dump a few gallons of vegetable oil in your tank however. You will ruin your engine. The conversion is grassroots technology, and for the most part a do -it- yourself process.   

Electric…There are so many beautiful electric cars that are either on the market, or soon will be. However, if they go faster than 60mph or have a charge lasting longer than 40-50 miles, they have an exorbitant price tag. You can convert your car for a lot cheaper than you think.

HHO Technology…Although hydrogen cells are what most experts claim to be the fuel of the future, I have found a grassroots movement that uses water as fuel today. You will still  have to take the occasional trip to the gas pump, because water is supplemental to your gas or diesel fuel, and 100% water cars are still on the drawing board. Moreover,  extracting energy from water to double or triple your fuel economy is VERY EASY. This is not new technology. People have been using water to gas converters in vehicles for  years.  

Solar and Wind for the Home…Whether or not you decide to go off grid or stay on and sell extra energy as some do, solar and wind as alternatives are more affordable than you think. Where as contractors charge thousands to install, you can do-it-yourself for hundreds. Real people, not corporations, have come up with efficient and extremely affordable programs that walk you through step by step instructions, on how to build and install renewable energy for your home.

My own extensive research has helped me narrow down the best of the best instructional guides, complete with blueprints, photos, and video for any do-it-yourself green project you might be considering. Obviously, I can’t go into great detail in this article, but if I have piqued your interest, you can get all the facts of this or many other ideas on how to go green at my site Possibly GREEN. There you’ll find the right ways to live a greener life, including information on how to find green jobs in your area.  

At 57, I consider myself to be a Jack Of All Trades And Master Of Nothing. I was a struggling actor for 25 years. During that time I learned a little about a lot of things, and would like to pass along some of that knowledge. I live in California with my beautiful wife and a menagerie of pets.
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