PBC Schools Go Green

http://www.treehugger.com/files/2009/04/revolution-in-a-bottle-how-terracycle-redefines-green-business.php - great article about a company, TerraCycle, that was started in 2001 by two college students.

This company pays schools, non-profits and community groups to collect packaging from participants Honest Tea, Stonyfield Farm and Clif Bar. They upcycle the drink pouches into tote bags and pencil cases, the yogurt containers into planters; Clif Bar wrappers are “fused and woven into a strong material, which will then be used to make backpacks, gym totes and other products.”

Interestingly, YOUR school can contribute to the growth of this emerging eco-innovation business by collecting and selling them (yes, you’ll get paid a little bit!) your collected materials.  See here: www.terracycle.net or here: http://brands.kraftfoods.com/caprisun/be-green-earn-green.aspx.

On November 18, 2008, the School Board recognized Banyan Creek Elementary School’s student recycling club for its outstanding recycling efforts. Under the guidance of teacher Sandy Doherty and with the assistance of head custodian DeJane Telusma, the club is now in its second full year of paper and commingled recycling. The school utilizes the student recycling club to collect paper, plastic and aluminum for recycling. There are 20 active student members, including a large group of Safety Patrols. Over the course of one year, the school is expected to collect 21 tons of paper products, which saves over 200 trees, and 78 cubic yards of aluminum, glass and plastic.

Below, you’ll find a list of the recycling coordinator(s) at each school. Now, before you say, “Hey, why isn’t my school on your list?” Continue Reading »

Schools in need of FREE paper recycling bins for classrooms and common areas such as teacher workrooms and mail stations should contact Christina at christina.kasik@palmbeach.k12.fl.us with the following information:

• School name
• School recycling coordinator’s name and PX
• Number of classroom bins needed
• Number of larger, “central” collection bins needed

Please note that these bins are provided free of charge by the Solid Waste Authority (thanks, SWA!) and are typically delivered within 7-10 days of the date of our request.  These bins are made of cardboard and should be treated with care so that they will last more than one school year.

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