Bring Zero Waste Into the Classroom, One Project at a Time!

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The 35 Zero Waste projects featured in this Schools Activity Guide were developed and implemented by Eco-Cycle in 80 Colorado public schools over a 35-year period. Eco-Cycle is one of the nation's oldest, largest, and best-known nonprofit recycling, composting, and zero waste organizations. 

The activities are designed for schools, camps, and other settings that serve any age, preschool through high school. Teachers and administrators will also find detailed guidance to implement building or district-wide programming. The Guide is arranged in four sections: 

•  Waste-Reduction Activities
• Recycling Activities
• Composting Activities
• Student Motivators and Rewards.

Each project can be printed or downloaded separately, making it easy to start small and build your program at your own pace. Combining several projects or adding projects over time will bring your school or organization closer and closer to zero waste in creative, low-cost ways! 

“This guide is excellent, so fun for students and so helpful to our school’s recycling and waste-reduction goals.”  —Linda S. (6th-grade teacher)

“This guide is packed with creative, actionable ideas for every stage of your school or organization’s zero waste journey. Every school and every age student can truly make a difference.” —Katie Navin, Executive Director, Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education