- SAVES ENERGY & RESOURCES: We use fewer natural resources such as trees, water and minerals when we recycle. Plus, it saves lots of energy when fewer raw materials are extracted and/or processed,
- REDUCES LANDFILLS: Recycling means "less waste"; this cuts down on the need for landfills and incinerators.
- PREVENTS POLLUTION: Extracting and processing raw materials leads to greenhouse gas emissions — recycling reduces this pollution.
- GIVES GARBAGE NEW LIFE: When you recycle used items, you create something new (which is pretty cool).
- CREATES JOBS: Growth in the recycling industry results in the creation of new jobs throughout the country.
Take the Pledge - America Recycles |
& in your Community...
Learn how reducing, reusing, and recycling can help you, your community and the environment by saving money, energy and natural resources. Recycling programs are managed at the state and local level—find information on recycling in your community.
| The StyroGenie is a thermal densification machine that reverses the foam manufacturing process by removing the air and returning the trays to a liquid resin. The resin is then cooled and formed into small blocks that can then be recycled and returned to a foam manufacturing facility to be made into new trays. The StyroGenie is manufactured by Foodservice Sustainability Solutions located in Marietta, Ga., and is used in other school districts around the country. https://www.homeforfoam.com/styrogenie-recycling-lunch-trays-made-easy |
"The StyroGenie is a low cost machine that is easy to use and is a responsible choice for the environment. Standing at six feet by four feet, the StyroGenie can hold up to 1200 trays in each cycle. While it takes about ten hours for the trays to be densified, the machine only uses the same amount of electricity as an average hair dryer. In addition, it operates without any moving parts or harmful emissions, making it safe for the environment." -
We also extend our gratitude to LMJH Principal, Mr. Ryan Cherry, for sharing more about the recycling efforts on a "school wide" basis. We enjoyed learning more about this phenomenal idea and how the idea came about.. We hope more districts can "get on board".
Little Miami Recognized for Recycling Efforts Little Miami’s efforts to go green received recognition from a local agency: Warren County Solid Waste Management District |
"The school's trash output in the cafeteria has gone down from 52 to 15 bags a day."
The cost of the StyroGenie for Lake Hills Elementary was $12,000, "but it should pay for itself in two years from refuse disposal savings." Plus, "It's the right thing to do," - STEM coordinator at the school said,
Bricks were painted and placed in the school garden for decorative purposes and for a walkway incentive. The city's street department was contacted for additional use for the bricks.
"In addition to promoting a safe environment, the Styro-Genie shows students what is possible if they open up their minds." Lake Hills Elementary is also preparing kids to be problem solvers and creative thinkers as to solve some of the problems the world might have in the future.
https://www.epa.gov/recycle/reduce-reuse-recycle-resources-students-and-educators
Office of Environmental Education: epa.ohio.gov/oee/
https://epa.ohio.gov/oee/#131364250-environmental-education
https://epa.ohio.gov/ocapp/recycling#1843210477-community-and-litter-grant
https://epa.ohio.gov/Do-Business/Get-Help/Financial-Assistance
http://ruralaction.org/programs/zerowaste/our-services/pledge-program/
https://www.environmentalscience.org/careers
| Featured Photo: Ms. Honigford is assisting WCSWCD with a Stream Water Quality Monitoring event at the Little Miami River. Ways to Volunteer: WCSWCD (+sign up for our emails): https://www.warrenswcd.com/volunteer-opportunities.html America's Natural and Cultural Resources Volunteer Portal: https://www.volunteer.gov/ Earth Team Volunteer: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/people/volunteers/ |