How-To Guide: Start a School Recycling Program

Classroom Recycling

1. Have a clearly marked recycling container next to every trash can. UCRRA can provide special containers or decals upon request.
2. Post what items are recyclable on or by the container. UCRRA has a supply of recycling brochures and flyers available.
3. Discuss why and what to recycle with students. Make periodic PA announcements about recycling to remind the entire school of its importance.

Cafeteria Recycling

1. Put a recycling container next to every trash can.
2. Clearly mark all containers. UCRRA can provide recycling decals.
3. Have recycling containers in the food prep area to collect tin cans, glass bottles / jars, plastic bottles, and cardboard.

Teachers’ Lounge Recycling

In your lounge, you should recycle paper, as well as glass, plastic bottles and metal cans.
To effectively recycle these items, you need to:

1. Put a recycling container next to every trash can.
2. Make sure you have one container for paper, and another for all of the commingled containers; including glass, plastic bottles and metal
   containers.
3. Post what items are recyclable above or near the containers as a reminder. UCRRA has decals you can use.
4. Send a recycling memo to your school’s faculty and staff.

Office Recycling

In the office you generate a lot of paper and a small amount of plastic bottles.
To be effective in the office, you will need to do the following:

1. Place a recycling container next to the mail boxes.
2. Take out all of the extra trash cans.
3. Place a recycling container at each desk. Ninety-five percent of deskside waste is paper!
4. Have a large paper-only container next to all copy machines.