What can be recycled in a school depends on what types of materials are being thrown away and the market that will accept the collected items. The easiest and most common material to recycle in a school is paper. Many schools also recycle aluminum, clothing, printer cartridges and more!

It could be a group of students, a committee of parents, a teacher or administrator. Whoever it is, it is important to have someone who is responsible for the program.

Survey local recycled materials handlers to see what kind of materials they collect, how they need to be separated, what price they will pay for the items and if they will pick up the recyclables at the school.

If you want your recycling program to work, you must source separate. If the material you decide to recycle is paper, you will probably need a container for every classroom. Try and make it easier to place the materials in a recycling bin rather than in the trash.

The success of a recycling program depends on how well people participate. Make sure that everyone involved knows what to do and why it is important. There are many ways to do this: assembly programs, announcements, posters, contests, research projects, guest speakers, etc.

Will a custodian or group of students transport the paper or other recyclables from each room to a storage area? It is important the storage of any waste materials meet the fire codes for the school building (call your local fire protection district for info).