K-12 Schools

Minnesota Statute 115A.151 requires Minnesota schools to have recycling programs.  Common materials such as paper, metal cans and plastic bottles can be easily recycled, and thereby diverted from the trash.

Common Challenges

Schools, because they’re multifunctional, pose a particular set of challenges when it comes to recycling. Whether it’s recycling in the cafeteria, classroom, auditorium or sports facilities, recycling in schools can be difficult. The following are some of the most common recycling challenges in schools:

  • Students and staff do not know what is and is not recyclable.
  • There are not enough recycling bins in the school.
  • Recycling bins can become contaminated.
  • Recycling is not embedded into school culture.
  • Food scraps collection and food waste prevention are difficult to implement and maintain.

Best Practices

  • Establish buy-in from: 
    • School administration
    • Custodial staff
    • Teachers and staff
    • Students
  • Make recycling simple and convenient.
  • Label and color code all waste containers. Place recycling and waste containers next to each other.
  • Establish food scraps collection in the cafeteria.
  • Educate staff and students about your school’s recycling system every school year.
  • Continue to evaluate the program and adjust as needed. 

Food Waste Prevention

Ensuring students eat all the food they take during lunch is the best way to prevent food waste. However, there are many reasons as to why this is not always possible. When deciding what to do with leftover foods, consider the following options:

Resources

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