The PTA at DorothySmithPullenElementary School in Heath is serious about a school-wide “going green” initiative. So serious, in fact, that one of their latest projects is focused on that very objective. Environmental Chairperson Melissa Bailey says the commitment has never been stronger.
“We are partnering with three companies - ECO-Cell, ENVIRO-BAG, and TerraCycle – all of which offer school recycling programs,” she said. “The primary goal of this partnership is to model earth-friendly behaviors for our students by recycling three items: cell phones, plastic shopping bags and juice drink pouches. These items pile up in landfills and are hazardous to our environment.”
Mrs. Bailey calls the partnership a win-win for everybody.
“The bonus is that these companies pay us for the items we collect, recycle them into other products, and we earn much-needed funds for our school.”
According to the EPA, cell phones will generate an estimated 65,000 tons of electronic garbage this year; they contain toxic chemicals and hazardous substances that can linger in the environment for a long time triggering serious health concerns. And much has been written about the hazards of plastic bags; they are not biodegradable, litter and clog waterways, and pose a serious threat to birds and marine mammals that often mistake them for food.
Pullen Principal Renee Demianovich says that teaching students how to manage waste effectively and efficiently is a vital part of their educational experience.
“It’s important that our students develop an understanding of their impact on the environment and how they are not only capable, but responsible for helping to take care of our earth,” she said. “Our environmental partnership with the PTA enables us to educate families, save money and resources, and make a difference in our community. “
As part of Pullen’s Environmental Program, three collection boxes have been placed in the school foyer – one box for each of the types of items being collected. Students are encouraged to “collect trash, earn cash, and save the planet.”
For sixth grader Abi Young, a reporter for the school TV station, it’s a platform worth fighting for. “Going green is so cool - along with the chance to learn and get to educate Pullen students about the environment and recycling,” she said. “My goal is that kids don’t just think about recycling or helping the environment, but do it.”
For more information on implementing a similar program at your school or place of business, visit www.eco-cell.com, www.envirobag.com or www.terracycle.net.
