Schools generate a great deal of waste, especially as a by-product of food service. Many, of course, have some sort of recycling program in place. The challenge to schools is to make waste management a viable and even exciting part of the total learning experience. According to investigation and research, nearly ¾ of our school rubbish bin contents could be either recycled or turned into valuable compost.
All Education Is Environmental Education
Including waste management in the suite of learning outcomes empowers students to consider their personal habits and shared responsibilities in terms of the whole school and the greater community. What is important is how students perceive this recycling and the district’s commitment to include waste management in the learning process.
Waste Management Can Be an Important Part of the Curriculum
Waste management, properly incorporated in a school’s curriculum, teaches many lessons. School site routines in the cafeteria, classroom, and playground may include activities related to recycling, composting, and material reuse that naturally lead students to understanding the need to conserve natural resources. Students can play a role in conducting a waste audit of the cafeteria, leading to curriculum and experiential learning opportunities about energy use and nutrient cycling
