Self Organizing - Recycling Education

Overview
Did you know there are different levels of recycling? This volunteer opportunity will help you learn what those levels are and what types of plastics should are in each level, and then teach others about what you’ve learned. By providing the actual labeled bins and explanations of what should go in each bin, individuals will be able to create impact within their environment on a daily basis.

Supporting Organizations

Schools
Community centers
YMCA, 4-H, Boys & Girls Clubs or other youth-serving organizations

Materials

Recycling bins (can be purchased at sites such as http://www.nextag.com/plastic-recycling-bin/compare-html)
Markers and paper labels with levels
List of Recycle Levels and types of products that go in each category

http://environment.about.com/od/earthtalkcolumns/a/recycleplastics.htm

Instructions

Identify a organization that can support your recycling program.
Add labels to the bins stating its “level,” and examples of the types of plastic that should go in it.
Take bins to the designated location and explain how the recycling process works.
Meet with the students, clients or others who frequent the location. Talk to them about recycling and demonstrate how the recycling system works.
If possible, post signs with facts about recycling, such as “Polar fleece is partially made from recycled plastic bottles.”
Leave written instructions for what to put in each bin and how to locate the levels on the plastic. Be sure to explain what to do with the recyclables once they’re collected.

Reflection
After your volunteer project, it is important to reflect on the experience – to think about what you did, what you learned from it and the impact it had. Here are some suggested activities:

Tell your family and friends about something you learned and if/how you will continue to help others.
Draw a picture, write a poem or create a jingle about the service activity.
Write about your experience on your blog, FaceBook or Twitter.
Write a letter to the editor to discuss your experience and encourage others to serve.
If you’re working with a group of volunteers to do this project, lead a group discussion with questions such as:

Why did you volunteer today?
What did you learn about recycling, the environment or helping the community?
What is one thing you will remember most about this service activity?
How can you continue to make a difference in our community?