Effort 3: Waste Reduction
3.1 We learn about our waste.
Our classroom has conducted at least two Waste Audits a minimum of one month apart and discuss the results as a class.
We have used the results of our Waste Audits to develop class initiatives to improve our waste reduction.
Waste Audit #1 Table
Waste Audit #2 Table
Waste Reduction Presentation
Waste Audit Guide
How Much Landfill Waste Do Calgarians Produce?
3.2 We take action to minimize and divert our waste.
We find ways to give common communication notices (ex. agendas, meeting notices) in a paperless fashion.
We actively find ways to re-use items (ex. leftover textiles, extra containers)
We have a classroom mixed recycling bin and regularly make use of it.
We sort our everyday recyclables into the mixed recycling and refundable beverage containers.
We empty recyclable food or beverage containers before recycling them.
We use the appropriate recycling stream to dispose of our unusual recyclables (ex. batteries, toner cartridges, light bulbs, chemicals).
We use a reduced size landfill waste bin for our classroom.
Blue Bin Guide
Black Bin Guide
3.3 We encourage composting of organic waste.
We use the nearest compost bin to dispose of our organic waste and compostable items.
We encourage the use of re-usable water bottles, and discourage the use of disposable plastic bottles.
We encourage the use reusable cups, mugs, dishware and utensils during times food or beverages are served.
When re-usable items can not be used, we use BPI-certified compostable alternatives instead of plastic serving ware.
Green Bin Guide
3.4 We minimize the waste created by single-use and disposable items.
We have replaced all single-use items with reusable or compostable alternatives.
We do not have plastic straws, sugar, salt, or condiment packets in our classroom.
3.5 We are thoughtful about paper usage.
The printers in our classroom are set to print double-sided by default.
We keep a stack of single-sided and/or waste paper in classroom for reuse as scrap paper.