Académique Documents
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Recycling in
Schools
September 2006
Many school vending machines are switching from using aluminum cans to PET (#1) plastic bottles. Unfortunately,
because most schools do not have a system in place to collect and recycle plastic bottles, this switch can cause a lot
of ʺnon-recycling.ʺ The School Recycling Club (THE CLUB) has developed this ʺhow toʺ guide to assist schools in
the important step of starting a plastic bottle recycling program.
1. What are the hours of operation and days of The “Clear Streams” Recycling Bins are a great
collection for plastic recycling? collection method for recyclable containers. Its strong
2. Should the school make special arrangements to wire frame, see through bag (providing content
be a part of curbside collection of recyclables (if visibility), bold graphics, and raised 4-hole lid
applicable) or use of the drop-off facility? dramatically increase recycling participation and
reduce the chance of contamination, and is available
3. What condition does the plastic need to be in (i.e. to New Hampshire members of THE CLUB for only
caps off, labels removed, etc.) to be recycled? $11! The bin can be used to collect any type of
4. Does the plastic need to be separated by color? container, such as aluminum cans or plastic bottles.
If your local community does not recycle PET plastic, Step 5: Get the Word Out!
contact THE CLUB at 603-736-4401 (e-mail
theclub@nrra.net) for help in finding an alternative. In order for a recycling program to be successful,
students and staff must understand how to
Step 3: Establish Efficient Collection Route participate. All of the following activities can create
enthusiasm for PET bottle recycling at your school:
Many schools have recycling bins located throughout v Kick off the program in conjunction with a
the building: in classrooms, hallways, the cafeteria, national environmental event, such as Earth Day
etc. However, when recycling PET bottles, it is (4/22), America Recycles Day (11/15), etc.
v Make presentations, hold assemblies, and Another option schools have tried is to use a mesh bag
develop posters or brochures. hung on a rack for collection. By placing a plastic tray
underneath the mesh bag to catch draining fluid,
v Send a Press Release to local newspapers
bottles are empty when collected.
announcing the program.
THE CLUB is a project of the Northeast Resource Recovery Association (NRRA), a proactive, non-profit working to
make recycling programs strong, efficient and financially successful.