Essay on Recycling for Students and Children

500+ words essay on recycling.

Recycling is a method of procedure that includes the collection and breaking down of waste material to create something new out of it. The process was introduced sot that the non-biodegradable materials can be melted or break down to create something useful. After the effects of global warming and pollution have become known to men the process of recycling has become more important.

Essay on Recycling

Why We Need Recycling?

We need recycling for many reasons. But most importantly, it will help us to save our planet. Besides, recycling saves the earth by facilitating the reprocess of paper which will save millions of trees.

Also, recycling saves a lot of energy because many things that we recycle can easily be converted into virgin materials. In addition, it saves a lot of resources too.

Moreover, recycling reduces the burden of the environment. As we save energy the number of greenhouse gases and oxides are produced in less quantity. Because most of the toxic gases are produced by factories.

In addition, recycling reduces the amount of waste, that takes years to decompose. Also, the recycled material can be sold. We use this recycled material for the manufacturing of many new products. So, ultimately recycling saves money.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

The Process of Recycling

The various materials that we recycle have to go through a process that refines and purifies them. Besides, different materials go through a different process and in this topic we will discuss the recycling process of various materials.

Paper- It is the most used material on the earth. Paper is made up of two materials water and wood. For recycling paper firstly they break it down in small pieces and dissolve it into water. After that, they add chemicals that filter out the ink and dirt from it. In addition after filtering the paper takes the form of a mush called the pulp and this pulp is later converted into clean paper.

Metals-  The metals are first shredded into small pieces and then they were melted and after that remolded into new shapes.

Glass- The recycling of glass is the easier they just break it into pieces and then they melt it and recast them.

Plastic- They also follow the same process as plastic. But, the process of plastic recycling is a little bit complex because they have to sort out the different types of plastics. As there is a diverse variety of plastic with different properties.

How Can We Contribute to Recycling?

Almost everything that we use can be recycled whether it is household materials like paper, plastic, metal, glass, furniture, toys, artifacts, vehicles, etc. Besides, opt for things from the market that can easily be recycled. Also, try to use merchandise that is made up of recycled products.

In addition, sort your waste and dump your recyclable waste in the recycle bin so that the authorities can recycle it.

To Sum it up, recycling is a small step by humans to save the environment . But this small step is very effective in the long run. Also, before throwing away the waste we should check it to see if there is a recyclable product in it or not.

FAQs about Essay on Recycling

Q.1 List some benefits of recycling. A.1 There are many benefits to recycling like:

  • It reduces the amount of waste produced by us.
  • Conserves natural resources such as water, wood, and minerals.
  • It prevents the overuse of resources and helps in preserving them.
  • In addition, it saves energy.

Q.2 Give an important fact related to recycling. A.2 An important fact can be that recycling reduces the amount of waste which goes to landfills. Also, lesser density in landfill means less amount of methane and other gases is released into the air.

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Essay on Recycling

The process of converting waste materials into a new material or object that is useful is known as recycling. It prevents the wastage of some useful materials and is responsible for reducing the consumption of the new material. Recycling is a process that acts as an excellent help for the earth's environment as it reduces energy usage, air pollution, and water pollution. In order to have a clear overview of recycling, one should give a read to the below-recycling essay.

A Long Essay on Recycling

With the increase in pollution every day, the world should develop different ways of securing the earth's environment for future generations. Recycling can be considered as one of the ways to control pollution because recycling is the key to reducing the wastage of some useful materials. Recycling aims at environmental sustainability by substituting raw material inputs into and by redirecting waste outputs out of the ecosystem. This paragraph was meant for giving a recycling essay introduction to the readers. While reading this article, one will understand the importance of recycling essays in the process of gaining knowledge.

Recyclable Materials

Recyclable materials are those materials that can be recycled easily. Recyclable material is an important topic in the essay on the recycling of waste. Some of the recyclable materials are many kinds of glass, paper, cardboard, metal, plastic, tires, textiles, batteries, and electronics. The process of composting or reusing biodegradable waste like food and garden waste can also be termed recycling. Material that is meant to be recycled is either given to a recycling center or is picked up from the garbage bins. The recyclable material is then sorted, cleaned, or reprocessed and transferred into a new material, which is then used for manufacturing new products. These materials that are used for manufacturing new products are also known as recyclates.

Recycling Consumer Waste

Different governments have established a number of systems around the globe for collecting the recyclates from the general waste team. One can gain knowledge on these different systems through this essay on recycling. The three main systems for collecting recyclates are drop-off centers, buy-back centers, and curbside collection.

Curbside collection is a service provided by the government to different households to collect their household waste and other recyclables. This type of recycling collection is mostly seen in urban and suburban areas. One may have learned about this in recycling at school essays.

Drop-off centers are collection sites where the recyclates are collected by a person and are delivered into designated containers. This is some extra knowledge that you can gain from this recycling essay in English.

An essay about recycling also describes buy-back centers. It is a center where recyclates are purchased from the customer and are sent for recycling. These centers buy materials like aluminum cans, glass, and paper.

Recycling Industrial Waste

Most of the waste that is generated all around the globe comes from industries. It is said that almost 64% of waste in the United Kingdom comes from industrial waste. Many industries try to perform recycling in a cost-effective way through different recycling programs. One of the most recycled products in industries is cardboard, as it is used in a huge quantity for packaging. Manufacturers that use materials like glass, lumber, wood pulp, and paper directly deal with recyclates. This is some new knowledge that one has gained from this recycling essay. Recycling industrial waste has become a necessary need for today's world in order to save the environment from deteriorating.

A Short Essay on Recycling

A Short Paragraph on Recycling in English

In this short essay about recycling, a person will be able to gain the required amount of knowledge about recycling. Recycling, in simple words, means converting waste materials into useful materials. The objective of recycling is to reduce wastage in the world and bring pollution under control. The materials that can be recycled are known as recyclates. This short paragraph on recycling is enough for understanding the concept of recycling.

Industrial waste holds the maximum part of the total earth's waste. So, industries should plan how to reduce it, and the best way to do that is by using materials that can be recycled. Governments are also taking initiatives to recycle a massive number of consumer waste.

The above recycling essay talks about recycling in short. Recycling is very important because it is the only way that can restrict pollution to some extent. In order to have a better future, it is very crucial to understand the impact of recycling on the environment.

How to prepare for Exams with This Topic?

Exam preparation is not complete without Vedantu. One simply needs to register with Vedantu or download the Vedantu app. At Vedantu one can find notes and other practice questions with solutions that are some of the best resources available to ace exams. The learning resources provide a thorough understanding of the topic.

Recycling is the need of the hour as pollution is at a peak, and it is very much important to control it as soon as possible. Recycling is one of the ways to minimize pollution, so it should be implemented in every country by creating proper awareness among the people and industries. The above article is the best recycling essay example to understand what recycling is and how it can affect us. New policies should be incorporated to accelerate the recycling process in every country. Governments of many countries have already started it, the faster, the better.

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FAQs on Recycling Essay

1. What are the three types of Recycling?

Recycling is the conversion of waste materials into a usable material that can be utilized for manufacturing a new product. Recycling is of three types: primary recycling, secondary recycling, and tertiary recycling. These three types are involved in performing the same function, but the way of doing that differs in each case, and that is what makes them different from each other. This means, in the case of primary recycling, the same material, and the same product is recycled such as paper made of recycled paper. In the case of secondary recycling, a product is manufactured out of recycled paper which is not paper. Finally, in the case of tertiary recycling, the recycled paper is broken down chemically into such an ingredient that it is no longer paper but still can be used for a product.

2. What are the five things that can be Recycled?

The process of transforming waste material into new material and products is known as recycling. The five things that can be recycled are rigid plastics, paper or cardboard, metals, glass, and polystyrene foam cups. These are the materials that are recycled in massive amounts all over the world. These types of materials are mostly recycled by industries because they use recyclates in their operations. Other examples of recyclates are fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) recyclates which are predominantly used for construction purposes.

3.  How does recycling reduce pollution?

Recycling is the incorporation of waste materials into daily practices. The reuse of waste materials avoids the further generation of pollutants from the manufacturing factories. These pollutants may be either air- or water-borne. The majority of such waste is discharged into water bodies such as lakes, rivers, oceans, and harmful landfills. Such an approach is cost-effective and supplies commodities made of recycled materials among different economic groups within the society. A classic example is the manufacture of textile apparel from recycled plastics.

4. What are the three main systems of collecting recyclates?

The government around the globe has three main systems of collecting recyclates- curbside collection, drop-off centers, and buy-back centers. The government has provided curbside collection to gather household waste in urban and suburban areas. Drop-off centers employ a person to collect recyclates and deliver to designated containers. Buy-back centers purchase from customers and send for recycling of items such as aluminum cans, glass items, and paper. These systems of recycling collection boost awareness among the citizens to support the cause and reduce the waste collectively.

5. What is the benefit of recycling cardboard and paper?

Cardboard and paper are made from the bark of trees through a series of sophisticated engineering. The trees are cut over a large scale in plantations. The bark is extracted and undergoes chemical processes such as bleaching. Such processes generate toxic waste and reduce the green cover, whenever there is a need for paper. Thus, recycling previously used cardboard and paper protects deforestation and wildlife habitat. As a result, the flora and fauna are maintained, leading to possible control of global warming.

Thus, recycling is an important process that can help us to save our environment. It is an important topic for the students as they can write different topics related to this topic for writing an essay in the exam. Students can prepare on other topics related to this topic such as the benefits of recycling, how recycling can help to save the environment etc. Students can get suitable information on the topic from Vedantu. Vedantu provides detailed information on Recycling in a simple and easy language. Students can read the essay given on Vedantu and can prepare similar points for writing an essay.

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The Importance of School Recycling

June 5, 2012

Do schools have an obligation to recycle? For most of us schools are an integral part of our early life—teachers are our mentors, books our tools for exploring the world. Civic lessons teach us the importance of obeying laws and voting. Hands-on activities, such as recycling and picking-up after ourselves, help to make us conscientious and concerned adults.

Schools should inspire passion. Many of us grew up with the "Crying Indian" and its strong visual image against litter. It became our responsibility to pick up after ourselves and not just throw our trash on the ground. Schools reinforced this message, helping us to realize that we a can make a difference in our community—that we care about ourselves, our family, and our community. School recycling can inspire students to care about the planet, to examine the resources that we use to make our world sustainable, to look at the consequences of using resources and generating pollution and waste.

Schools help to shape the habits that we continue as adults. Students who participate in recycling now will have more of an incentive to carry on this "habit" as adults. We learn as children the benefits of recycling, how easy it is to recycle with the right system in place, and the concrete actions we can take to protect our planet. The recycling "habit" developed in school can serve to transform our communities, our jobs, our nation as we recycle more and more of the products we consume and the resources used to manufacture them.

Schools have an obligation to look at waste as an expenditure that can be reduced. Waste reduction and reuse can save schools money. Adding recycling into the mix, along with "right-sizing" school dumpsters and collection frequency, can result in substantial cost savings for schools.

Schools need to do the right thing. Some state and local governments require schools to recycle. When schools recycle they help to reduce fossil fuel usage, conserve resources, and help to create local jobs. Schools help to set an example, a legacy, which children learn to admire, and to emulate.

So, why do so many schools still not recycle? In rural areas it can be an expense to find a hauler. In urban areas, schools often grapple with challenges of poverty and student absenteeism. School administrators and teachers often feel they cannot take on yet another task.

Many schools simply lack that "passionate advocate" to get recycling started in the school. Recycling success depends on a dedicated individual or team to plan, develop, and implement the program. A school recycling advocate can be a teacher, student, administrator, or parent. Passion for recycling can spread quickly resulting in recycling becoming an efficient and normal part of the school routine; however, the spark to get the school to begin recycling is essential.

Submitted by: Athena Bradley

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Home — Essay Samples — Environment — Environmental Protection — Recycling

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Essays on Recycling

Hook examples for recycling essays, "turning trash into treasure" hook.

"Recycling is the art of turning trash into treasure. Explore how recycling not only benefits the environment but also has economic and creative potential."

"The Urgency of Recycling: A Wake-Up Call" Hook

"Our planet faces a recycling crisis. Present alarming statistics about waste and the urgent need for recycling to mitigate the environmental impact."

"Recycling as a Lifestyle Choice" Hook

"Recycling isn't just an activity; it's a lifestyle choice. Discuss how individuals and communities can adopt sustainable practices and embrace recycling as a daily habit."

"From Trash to Resource: The Recycling Process" Hook

"Take a journey through the recycling process, from collection and sorting to transformation into new products. Highlight the innovative technologies behind recycling."

"Recycling Myths Debunked" Hook

"Dispelling common misconceptions about recycling is essential. Address myths and provide accurate information to encourage more people to participate in recycling efforts."

"Recycling Success Stories" Hook

"Share inspiring stories of communities, companies, or individuals who have made a significant impact through recycling initiatives. Celebrate their achievements and the ripple effect of their actions."

"Recycling for Future Generations" Hook

"Recycling is an investment in our planet's future. Discuss the importance of passing down eco-conscious values and recycling practices to future generations."

The Importance of Recycling for College Students

Why should you recycle: the essential benefits of recycling, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Recycling

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Recycling: Working for a Better World

The benefits of reuse and recycling, recycling should be mandatory in the united states, recycling is harming the environment, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

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Recycling is the process of converting waste materials into new materials and objects. The recovery of energy from waste materials is often included in this concept.

Recycling has been a common practice for most of human history, with recorded advocates as far back as Plato in the fourth century BC. In pre-industrial times, there is evidence of scrap bronze and other metals being collected in Europe and melted down for continuous reuse. Paper recycling was first recorded in 1031 when Japanese shops sold repulped paper. In Britain dust and ash from wood and coal fires was collected by "dustmen" and downcycled as a base material for brick making.

All recyclables will fall into 3 main types of recycling: primary, secondary and tertiary. Additionally recycling in classified based on material: waste paper and cardboard, plastic recycling, metal recycling, WEEE recycling (electronic devices), wood recycling, glass recycling, clothing and textile, bricks and inert waste recycling.

Recycling is an alternative to "conventional" waste disposal that can save material and help lower greenhouse gas emissions. It can also prevent the waste of potentially useful materials and reduce the consumption of fresh raw materials, reducing energy use, air pollution (from incineration) and water pollution (from landfilling).

The average person generates over 4 pounds of trash every day and about 1.5 tons of solid waste per year. A glass container can go from a recycling bin to a store shelf in as few as 30 days. Recycling 1 glass bottle saves enough energy to light a 100-watt light bulb for 4 hours. Enough energy is saved each year by recycling steel to supply Los Angeles with electricity for almost 10 years. Recycling one ton of paper saves 17 trees.

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recycling in school essay

Essay on Recycling

Essay on Recycling

Introduction

Children will be familiar with the activity of ‘Best out of Waste’ they do in school. For this activity, they are asked to create a new item from the given waste materials. We will be awestruck to witness the creation of beautiful lamps, pen holders, decorative items, vases, and much more from plastic or other waste materials. This activity can be marked as the first step to educating children about recycling. Further, this essay on recycling will delve deep into the topic to make them understand its importance.

Recycling is an effective method to convert waste materials into usable products or items. Some non-biodegradable materials like plastic are added up to the pile of wastes that pollute the environment. Hence, they are recycled to reduce their increased usage. Through this short essay on recycling in English, we can teach our children about the advantages of recycling.

Importance of Recycling

It is a common practice to buy plastic water bottles while travelling . We usually throw them out after their use and buy another one. Can you imagine how much such waste we are adding daily? Besides, since plastic cannot be decomposed easily, they stay on the land for many years, harming the environment. The importance of recycling begins here, and we will see its benefits in this short essay on recycling.

Recycling helps in reducing the waste on the planet, thus saving it. Moreover, we will be able to create new materials from the waste material, which can be used accordingly. The recycled materials are further sold, and they are also used in the manufacture of new products. By recycling waste materials, we are saving our natural resources and protecting the environment .

The essay on recycling in English further motivates young children to practise recycling in their homes. Instead of throwing away plastic, glass, and paper, we can encourage them to create something out of them. In this way, we can fuel their creativity as well as make them aware of the damage that we are doing to the environment. Thus, the essay on recycling emphasises that recycling waste materials is a significant step to contributing to a greener Earth.

Recycling Waste Materials

In this part of the short essay on recycling, we will see how different waste materials are recycled. The most common waste materials recycled are paper, plastic, glass, and metals. Each of them has different properties; hence they are recycled in different ways. The essay on recycling in English will discuss the process of recycling briefly.

Paper is recycled by breaking it down into small pieces and dissolving it in water. After filtering the ink out by adding chemicals, it is turned into mush, which is later converted into a new paper. Plastic is widely used by all, and it is recycled by breaking it into pieces and then melting and recasting it. We use different grades of plastic, and each of them undergoes a distinct recycling process. Glass is also recycled in a similar way to that of plastic. Further, metals are crushed into bits, which then undergo the process of melting and remoulding.

With the help of this essay on recycling, children will be able to know more about the process. Through this, they will be inspired to take a step to save environment and protect its natural resources. For more information about the benefits of writing essays for kids, visit our official website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is recycling necessary.

Recycling is necessary to reduce the waste accumulated on land, which otherwise could lead to the emission of greenhouse gases and cause pollution in the environment.

What are the benefits of recycling?

Recycling ensures that there is a minimal amount of waste generated, and it helps in preserving natural resources. Recycling also saves energy and prevents pollution of the environment.

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How to Improve Recycling and Reduce Waste in Your School

Last Updated: June 9, 2021 References

This article was co-authored by Kathryn Kellogg . Kathryn Kellogg is the founder of goingzerowaste.com, a lifestyle website dedicated to breaking eco-friendly living down into a simple step-by-step process with lots of positivity and love. She's the author of 101 Ways to Go Zero Waste and spokesperson for plastic-free living for National Geographic. There are 14 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 9,757 times.

Recycling is a super important part of being a responsible citizen—it’s how we can reduce waste, improve air quality, and help take care of the earth. Schools are prime locations for recycling programs—just think about how much paper they use and how many meals they serve daily! Get everyone involved that you can—students, faculty, administration, and parents—and develop a plan that will challenge and benefit your school (and the earth) for the better!

Implementing and Expanding Programs

Step 1 Complete a waste audit to set new recycling goals for your school.

  • At the end of the day, gather all the trash (don’t neglect the classrooms, bathrooms, cafeteria, or outdoor spaces).
  • Have an adult go through the bags first to remove any sharp or dangerous objects.
  • Sort the waste into piles by category: white paper, colored paper, cardboard, plastic, metal, glass, and food waste.
  • Weigh the amount of each category, or put all the waste into garbage bags and count how many bags you have in each category.
  • Record your findings.
  • Set a goal to reduce waste by a certain amount. For example, decide to start a paper recycling program to reduce the amount of paper thrown out by half.

Step 2 Appoint a “recycling coordinator” to lead the recycling program.

  • To avoid putting too much on one person, consider having a small team made of teachers and staff members who will help support the recycling coordinator.

Step 3 Make recycling bins easily accessible to staff and students.

  • Put the recycling bins next to trash cans. That way, students can make the appropriate choice when they go to throw something out.
  • Check with your local recycling program to see what kinds of recyclables go together. For example, some areas might let you collect paper, cardboard, aluminum cans, and plastic bottles together in the same bin. Others might want all those categories to be separate.
  • Make a plan for how often to empty the bins and who will be responsible for that.

Step 4 Organize a composting...

  • Grass clippings from lawn maintenance can also go into the compost.
  • Avoid putting things like meat, oil, cooking grease, and bones into the compost.

Kathryn Kellogg

  • Create a fun rewards program for students who bring in batteries. For example, they could get points for each battery they bring in, and so many points could earn them special privileges or a small prize.

Step 6 Host an electronics drive for old computers, cellphones, and gadgets.

  • Remember to promote the event several weeks ahead of time. Put up signs and flyers (or send electronic flyers to cut down on paper use), have students make chalk signs on the walkways, have announcements made over the PA system, and send emails home to parents.
  • Partner with a local electronics store and bring all the recyclables to them after the drive. Many companies have programs specifically designed for schools.

Step 7 Add new categories of recycling as your program grows.

  • Get your students involved whenever possible! Ask them for their ideas about how to make your school better at recycling. You’ll be surprised at how many great ideas they come up with.

Step 8 Schedule frequent reminders to keep the recycling ball rolling.

  • If your recycling program is new, or if you’re trying something different, don’t be discouraged if it takes a little time to get started. Just keep at it and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Training and Education

Step 1 Teach everyone what to put in the recycling bins.

  • Put colorful signs on each bin labeling what goes into it, like “WHITE PAPER ONLY,” “COLORED PAPER AND CARDBOARD,” “PLASTIC BOTTLES (NO CAPS PLEASE),” or “FOOD SCRAPS.”
  • Have students make a video about the recycling rules to share with each class.
  • Hold a school assembly to talk about the new recycling program.
  • Have the recycling coordinator go around to talk to each class and give a recycling demonstration.

Step 2 Take field trips to the local landfill and recycling facilities.

  • Ask students to come up with 3 questions to ask on the trip. This will help them be more engaged.

Step 3 Cover recycling in science class each semester.

  • Check out resources from the United States Environmental Protection Agency at https://www.epa.gov/recycle/reduce-reuse-recycle-resources-students-and-educators .

Step 4 Have special assemblies to educate your students about recycling.

  • These programs are designed to be fun, entertaining, and interactive.
  • Your local recycling facility might have someone on their team who makes trips to schools. Give them a call to see if that’s an option for you!
  • If having someone come to your class isn’t an option, go virtual! There are many great videos online that help teach kids about recycling that you can stream for free.

Waste-Reduction Ideas

Step 1 Use both sides of paper for notes, crafts, or scratch paper.

  • Keep a bin of scrap paper near your desk that students can access whenever they need.

Step 2 Buy recycled products for the classroom.

  • Talk to the administration about making this practice mandatory for the entire school. It could make a massive difference in how your school operates.

Step 3 Switch lunch trays, utensils, and dishes to compostable ones.

  • Using compostable or reusable materials decreases how much waste your school sends to the landfill each week.

Step 4 Donate gently used items that your classroom no longer needs.

  • Even old books, as long as they’re in good shape, can be donated to your local library or education-based nonprofits.

Step 5 Encourage students to use refillable and reusable lunch materials.

  • Set an example for your students by going as waste-free as possible yourself! Bring your coffee in a to-go mug, pack lunch in a reusable bag, and ditch the plastic straws.

Step 6 Use double-sided printing whenever possible.

  • Depending on your school’s capabilities, you might even be able to go entirely (or almost entirely) paperless.

Groups and Events

Step 1 Set up a “Green Team” for students who want to get more involved.

  • Students can set up recycling programs, pitch new green ideas to the school, and raise awareness about the importance of recycling.
  • In addition to the students, get a teacher, custodian, and person from the administration. Parents might also be interested in participating.

Step 2 Hold a competition between classes to see who can recycle the most.

  • You could count instead of weighing things like plastic bottles and aluminum cans. Paper goods should be weighed, though; otherwise, it would take a long time to count each piece of paper!

Step 3 Organize a “Make a Difference Day” every few months.

  • If there’s a green group at the school, let them pick the event's focus.
  • April 22nd is Earth Day—this could be a great day to host your special event each year.

Step 4 Join district-wide contests to encourage students to get involved.

  • Search online or talk to your administration about different programs you can get involved in.

Expert Q&A

Kathryn Kellogg

  • Get students, parents, and faculty involved in your recycling programs. The more people participating, the better success you’ll have! Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Check with the school board to see what kinds of programs have worked in other schools. You might be inspired to try something new! Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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  • ↑ https://www.gov.je/SiteCollectionDocuments/Environment%20and%20greener%20living/ID%20WasteAudit%20291209%20ER.pdf
  • ↑ https://www.nwf.org/~/media/PDFs/Eco-schools/40956.ashx
  • ↑ https://kingcounty.gov/~/media/depts/dnrp/solid-waste/elementary-school/documents/improve.ashx?la=en
  • ↑ http://www.therockpile.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/OhioStateFact-Composting.pdf
  • ↑ Kathryn Kellogg. Sustainability Specialist. Expert Interview. 28 June 2020.
  • ↑ https://www.gov.je/Environment/GreenerLifestyles/GreenerSchools/Pages/QuickGuide.aspx
  • ↑ https://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyPDF.cgi/600009UZ.PDF?Dockey=600009UZ.PDF
  • ↑ https://thegreenteam.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Starting_a_School_Recycling_Program_(1).pdf
  • ↑ https://www.pca.state.mn.us/sites/default/files/w-hhw1-12.pdf
  • ↑ https://www.tucsonaz.gov/files/es/TTT_Complete_Aug2013.pdf
  • ↑ http://lessismore.org/materials/23-school-recycling/
  • ↑ https://www.monroecounty.gov/files/DES/education/tools%20to%20reduce%20waste%20in%20schools%20EPA.pdf
  • ↑ http://www.hamiltoncountyrecycles.org/UserFiles/Servers/Server_3788196/File/EnvironmentalServices/SolidWaste/Schools/Reducing%20Waste/WasteFreeLunch.pdf
  • ↑ http://www.hamiltoncountyrecycles.org/cms/One.aspx?portalId=6463011&pageId=6528441

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INFOGRAPHIC

The challenge of recycling.

Use this infographic to explore ways to reduce the use of plastics, learn about the types of plastics that can be recycled, and learn how to increase recycling.

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Morgan Stanley

Idea for Use in the Classroom Ask students to collect several pieces of plastic trash from home, the school cafeteria, or their classroom. Have students make a four-column data table listing the item, predicted ease of recycling (easy, manageable, difficult, very difficult), and actual ease of recycling. They should fill in the first two columns. Then introduce the infographic to students and ask them to fill in the last column. Divide the class in to two groups. Have one group of students read the article " Beach Clean-up Study Shows Global Scope of Plastic Pollution " along with the photo in the article. Have the second group read the infographics from the " Fast Facts About Plastic Pollution " article. After students have reviewed their assigned articles, bring the class together to share what they learned and to brainstorm. First, have students brainstorm ways to decrease the amount of single-use plastics that are used worldwide. Then have them come up with ideas to increase the amount of recycling activity that takes place. Record the ideas presented during each brainstorm session. Select one to two ideas from each brainstorm that students think should be implemented immediately and discuss why.

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A Going Green Guide

Creating a Successful School Recycling Program: A Step-by-Step Guide

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You want to make a difference in your school and contribute to a more sustainable future. But where do you start? How do you create a successful school recycling program that actually works? Don't worry, we've got you covered.

In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of establishing and implementing a recycling program in your school. From identifying your goals to engaging the school community, we will provide you with the tools and strategies you need to make your recycling program a success.

So, if you're ready to take action and make a positive impact, let's get started.

Table of Contents

Identify Your School's Recycling Goals

school recycling goals identified

To begin the process of identifying your school's recycling goals, assess the current waste management practices and determine areas for improvement. By evaluating the existing strategies and systems in place, you can understand the strengths and weaknesses of your school's recycling efforts. Look at the types of waste generated, the volume of recycling versus landfill waste, and the efficiency of collection and sorting methods. This assessment will help you identify the specific goals you want to achieve in your recycling program.

Once you have assessed the current practices, it's time to set objectives for your school's recycling goals. These objectives should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Examples of SMART objectives could include increasing the recycling rate by a certain percentage within a specific timeframe, reducing the amount of recyclable materials ending up in the landfill, or implementing a comprehensive education program to raise awareness and encourage participation.

When setting goals and objectives, involve key stakeholders such as students, teachers, staff, and administrators. Their input and support are vital for the success of your recycling program. By involving everyone in the process, you can ensure that the goals are realistic, aligned with the school's values, and have the necessary resources and commitment to be achieved.

Regularly review and reassess your goals to track progress and make adjustments as needed.

Assess Available Resources and Support

Now that you have identified your school's recycling goals, it's important to assess the available resources and support to ensure successful implementation of your program.

Start by assessing the resources you currently have within your school. Take inventory of the recycling bins, collection containers, and any other equipment needed for the program. Determine if you have enough resources to accommodate the anticipated volume of recyclables. If not, consider purchasing additional bins or reaching out to local recycling organizations for assistance.

Next, evaluate the support you have from the school community. Seek support from teachers, staff, and students who can help in promoting and maintaining the recycling program. Identify individuals who are passionate about recycling and can take on leadership roles. Having a committed team can greatly contribute to the success of your program.

Additionally, reach out to external organizations and agencies that can provide further support. Local recycling centers or waste management companies might offer educational resources, training materials, or even financial assistance to help establish and sustain your program.

Establish a Recycling Team or Committee

creating a sustainability taskforce

Now that you've assessed the available resources and support for your school recycling program, it's time to establish a recycling team or committee.

Forming a team involves identifying individuals who are passionate about sustainability and willing to take on specific roles and responsibilities. These team members will play a crucial role in implementing and managing the recycling program, ensuring its success and longevity.

Team Formation Process

Establishing a Recycling Team or Committee is crucial for the success of a school recycling program. When forming a team, it's important to consider individuals who are passionate about environmental sustainability and have excellent communication skills.

Effective communication within the team is essential for smooth coordination and implementation of the recycling program. Encourage team members to actively participate in discussions and share ideas. Assign specific roles and responsibilities to each member to ensure accountability and clarity.

Regular meetings should be scheduled to discuss progress, address challenges, and brainstorm solutions. Foster an environment of open communication and collaboration, allowing team members to freely express their thoughts and concerns.

Roles and Responsibilities

To ensure the success of your school recycling program, it's essential to assign specific roles and responsibilities within the established Recycling Team or Committee. Effective communication and coordination among team members are crucial for the smooth functioning of the program.

Here are some key roles and responsibilities to consider:

  • Program Coordinator : Responsible for overseeing the overall implementation of the recycling program and ensuring its alignment with the school's goals.
  • Recycling Educator : In charge of educating students and staff about the importance of recycling and providing guidance on proper recycling practices.
  • Collection Team : Responsible for collecting recyclable materials from designated bins and ensuring they're properly sorted and prepared for recycling.
  • Communication Liaison : Acts as a point of contact between the recycling team and other school stakeholders, such as teachers, administrators, and custodial staff.
  • Data Analyst : Tracks and analyzes recycling data to measure the program's effectiveness and identify areas for improvement.

Conduct a Waste Audit to Determine Current Recycling Practices

To conduct a waste audit and determine the current recycling practices at your school, follow a simple procedure.

Start by collecting a representative sample of waste from different areas of the campus.

Then, analyze the waste to identify recyclable materials that are being improperly disposed of.

This audit will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of your school's recycling program and help identify areas for improvement.

Waste Audit Procedure

When conducting a waste audit to determine current recycling practices, it's helpful to begin by gathering all relevant materials and preparing a designated workspace. This ensures that you have everything you need and can work efficiently.

Here is a step-by-step guide to the waste audit procedure:

  • Start by collecting all the waste generated in your school, including paper, plastic, metal, and food waste.
  • Separate the waste into different categories to get an idea of the types and quantities of waste being produced.
  • Weigh each category of waste to determine the volume and identify the areas where recycling efforts can be improved.
  • Analyze the data collected to identify waste reduction opportunities and set realistic recycling goals.
  • Document your findings and share them with the school community to raise awareness about waste audit benefits and encourage participation in the recycling program.

Analyzing Recycling Practices

Now that you have completed the waste audit procedure, it's time to analyze the recycling practices in your school. To ensure the success of your school's recycling program, it's crucial to understand the current practices and identify areas for improvement.

Start by examining the types of materials being recycled and the frequency of recycling pickups. This will help you determine if your school is following recycling best practices.

Additionally, measure the impact of the recycling program by tracking the amount of waste being diverted from landfills. This data will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of your program and can guide future initiatives.

Develop a Recycling Plan and Timeline

creating a sustainable recycling strategy

Start by creating a clear and practical recycling plan for your school, including a timeline for implementation. Developing a recycling schedule and setting recycling targets are crucial steps in ensuring the success of your program. Here's a simple guide to help you create an effective recycling plan:

  • Conduct a waste audit : Assess the current waste generation and disposal practices in your school. This will help you identify the types and quantities of recyclable materials.
  • Determine collection methods : Decide on the collection methods that will work best for your school. Will you use separate bins for different materials or a single-stream system? Consider the logistics and convenience for both students and staff.
  • Educate and engage : Develop educational materials and conduct awareness campaigns to promote recycling among students, teachers, and staff. Encourage everyone to participate and understand the importance of waste reduction.
  • Establish recycling targets : Set specific recycling targets for your school. This could be a percentage of waste diversion or a specific amount of recyclable materials to be collected per month.
  • Create a timeline : Set deadlines for each step of the recycling program implementation. This will help keep everyone accountable and ensure a smooth transition.

Educate Students and Staff About Recycling and Its Benefits

Now it's time to educate students and staff about recycling and its benefits.

Recycling is important because it helps reduce waste and conserve resources. By recycling, we can save energy, reduce pollution, and protect the environment.

It's essential to teach everyone in your school community about the positive impact recycling can have and encourage them to participate in the school's recycling program.

Importance of Recycling

By understanding the importance of recycling, you can actively contribute to the sustainability efforts of our school and make a positive impact on the environment. Recycling has significant economic benefits, such as reducing the cost of waste disposal and creating job opportunities in the recycling industry. It also has a profound environmental impact by conserving natural resources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and minimizing pollution caused by the extraction and production of new materials. Through recycling, we can help preserve our planet for future generations.

So, why is recycling important? Consider these points:

  • Recycling reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills, preventing them from becoming overcrowded and reducing the need for new landfill sites.
  • It conserves energy by using recycled materials instead of extracting and processing raw materials.
  • Recycling helps combat climate change by reducing the emission of greenhouse gases during the production of new products.
  • It protects natural resources like forests, water, and minerals, as recycling reduces the need for extracting virgin materials.
  • Engaging in recycling educates students and staff about the importance of environmental responsibility and sustainable practices.

Benefits of Recycling

Recycling not only contributes to the sustainability efforts of our school and positively impacts the environment, but it also educates students and staff about the numerous benefits of practicing recycling.

By actively participating in a school recycling program, students and staff gain a deeper understanding of the importance of waste reduction, resource conservation, and environmental responsibility. They become aware of the significant role they play in minimizing waste and preserving natural resources.

Recycling also teaches valuable lessons about the lifecycle of materials, the concept of reusing and repurposing, and the positive impact of small actions on a larger scale.

In addition, recycling fosters a sense of community and collaboration, as students and staff work together towards a common goal.

Implement Recycling Bins and Signage Throughout the School

school wide recycling initiative implementation

To ensure efficient and convenient recycling throughout the school, consider distributing recycling bins and clear signage in strategic locations. Here are some tips to help you implement recycling bins and signage effectively:

  • Strategically place recycling bins : Position recycling bins in high-traffic areas such as cafeterias, hallways, and classrooms. This will make it easier for students and staff to dispose of recyclable materials.
  • Use clear signage : Create signs that clearly indicate what can be recycled and what cannot. Use simple and concise language along with visual cues to make it easy for everyone to understand.
  • Label bins appropriately : Label each recycling bin with the type of materials that should be placed in it, such as paper, plastic, or aluminum. This will help prevent contamination and ensure that items are properly sorted.
  • Consider color coding : Assign different colors to different types of recyclables. For example, use blue bins for paper and green bins for plastic. This will make it visually clear which bin to use for each type of material.
  • Regularly empty and maintain bins : Empty recycling bins regularly to prevent overflow and ensure that the recycling program runs smoothly. Additionally, regularly clean and maintain the bins to keep them in good condition.

Create a System for Collecting and Sorting Recyclables

Establish an efficient and organized system for collecting and sorting recyclables within your school. Implementing a well-designed collecting system is crucial to ensure that recyclables are properly separated and don't end up in the landfill.

To begin, strategically place recycling bins in high-traffic areas throughout the school, such as hallways, classrooms, and cafeterias. Clearly label the bins with easily recognizable symbols or pictures to help students and staff identify the correct bin for each type of recyclable material. Additionally, consider color-coding the bins to further streamline the sorting process.

To create an effective sorting system, it's important to educate students and staff about proper recycling practices. Provide clear instructions on what types of materials can be recycled and what should be placed in the regular trash. Conduct regular training sessions or workshops to reinforce recycling guidelines and answer any questions or concerns.

Furthermore, establish a team of students or volunteers responsible for monitoring and maintaining the recycling system. These individuals can regularly empty and sort the bins, ensuring that recyclables are properly separated and ready for collection.

Monitor and Track Progress of the Recycling Program

recycling program progress monitoring

After implementing an efficient collecting and sorting system for recyclables, it's essential to monitor and track the progress of your school's recycling program. By tracking the program's performance, you can identify areas of improvement, celebrate successes, and ensure the program's long-term success.

Here are some effective methods for monitoring and tracking your recycling program:

  • Conduct regular waste audits to measure the amount of recyclables collected and identify any contamination issues.
  • Use tracking sheets or online platforms to record the volume of recyclables collected each week or month.
  • Implement surveys or feedback forms to gather input from students, staff, and custodians about the program's effectiveness and areas for improvement.
  • Analyze data collected to identify trends, such as changes in recycling rates over time or specific areas where recycling efforts can be enhanced.
  • Set clear goals and targets for the program, and regularly assess progress towards these targets.

Engage the School Community Through Events and Campaigns

One effective way to engage the school community and promote recycling is through organizing engaging events and campaigns. By hosting school-wide campaigns, you can create a sense of unity and purpose among the students, teachers, and staff. These campaigns can be designed to raise awareness about the importance of recycling and encourage everyone to participate actively.

One idea for a school-wide campaign is a recycling competition. Divide the school into teams and challenge them to collect the most recyclable materials over a set period of time. You can track the progress of each team and award prizes to the winners. This not only promotes recycling but also fosters a spirit of friendly competition among the participants.

Another option is to organize themed events that focus on recycling and sustainability. For example, you could host a 'Trash to Treasure' event where students showcase their creative projects made from recycled materials. This not only highlights the potential of recycling but also encourages students to think outside the box and find innovative ways to reuse items.

To ensure community involvement, consider inviting local organizations and businesses that promote sustainability to participate in these events. This won't only enhance the impact of the campaigns but also create networking opportunities for the school and the community.

Continuously Evaluate and Improve the Recycling Program

recycling program evaluation and improvement

To ensure the effectiveness of your school recycling program, it's essential to continuously evaluate and make improvements. Regularly assessing the program's effectiveness will help you identify areas that need improvement and implement changes accordingly. Here are some steps you can take to evaluate and improve your recycling program:

  • Gather feedback : Conduct surveys or hold meetings to gather input from students, faculty, and staff about the program's strengths and weaknesses. This feedback will provide valuable insights into what's working and what needs to be changed.
  • Analyze data : Review recycling data regularly to determine the program's impact. Look for trends and patterns that can help you identify areas for improvement, such as low participation rates or contamination issues.
  • Benchmark against goals : Compare your program's performance against the goals you set initially. Are you meeting your targets? If not, identify the reasons behind the shortfall and develop strategies to address them.
  • Seek external expertise : Engage with recycling experts or consultants to gain insights into best practices and innovative approaches. They can provide guidance on improving collection methods, implementing new technologies, or engaging the community.
  • Implement changes : Based on the feedback, data analysis, and expert advice, develop an action plan to implement changes. This may involve revising recycling guidelines, enhancing educational initiatives, or exploring partnerships with local recycling facilities.

To create a successful school recycling program, it's crucial to identify clear goals, assess available resources, and establish a dedicated team. Conducting a waste audit will help determine current practices and guide the development of a recycling plan with a realistic timeline.

Implementing a system for collecting and sorting recyclables, monitoring progress, and engaging the school community through events and campaigns are essential steps. Continuously evaluating and improving the program ensures its long-term success.

Investigating the truth behind recycling theories adds sophistication and helps make informed decisions.

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Essay on Recycling in English for Children and Students

recycling in school essay

Table of Contents

Recycling is a process of turning waste into new material or product. This is an outstanding way to protect the environment and decrease universal carbon emissions. Recycling means converting waste material into something usable. Products like – Glass, paper, plastic, and metals such as aluminum and steel are all usually recycled.

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Recycling is necessary if we want to protect this world for our prospect generations. We make new products from the old unused products. By reusing and not throwing your old products, you are actually recycling. Recycling, an old practice with numerous modern applications is significant to the natural environment as well as human beings. It refers to the revival and reuse of resources from spent products.

Long and Short Essay on Recycling in English

The Environmental policy majorly includes recycling as its part. This is mainly because of the increased costs of solid and hazardous-waste disposal, the scarcity of natural resources, and the growing concern over polluted land, water, and air. Here are essays on recycling of varying lengths to help you with the topic in your exam. You can select any recycling essay according to your need:

Essay on Recycling 200 Words

It all goes back to the history of recycling. Starting in 1900, people recycled pots, pans, and other metals by melting them down. But as more plastic products were made, Recycling got confusing and codes were created. Thus, recycling codes are important so you know what to recycle. Now, recycling is more important than ever. Incentive programs are encouraging people to recycle more and help the environment. Recycling is done all over the world. In certain countries, some programs pay you for recycling products. Recycling is the third ‘R’ of Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. As you contribute your bit towards recycling and making the environment clean, keep the following in mind:

  • If you don’t need something then don’t buy it. By this, you would be reducing the amount of waste you produce.
  • If there is a necessity to buy, go for something that has very less amount of packing, the product that can be reused or something that can be composted. Buy products that are eco-friendly.
  • Try buying the products that are made of recycled material. Paper and plastic are some examples of recycled products.

Before throwing anything, think a way to reuse that item. Plastic containers can be used to store items in the refrigerator. Old items can be given to charitable organizations where they can be utilized. Cans and containers can be used as flower pots in the garden.

Essay on Recycling 300 Words

Recycling helps in defending the environment in addition to providing a lot of usable products to the community without the need for additional resources. Its significance can be seen in numerous ways. It is essential to educate the public about its importance so that they contribute towards it wholeheartedly.

Recycling is a way of doing things where we gather and reuse materials. This helps us deal with stuff that doesn’t break down naturally, like plastics. It’s especially important now because we’ve learned about global warming and pollution.

Why is recycling important?

Below are the reasons in which recycling can be helpful:

  • Recycling Saves the Earth – Recycling a product can facilitate in preserving the environment. For example, recycling the paper can result in paper production without cutting more trees.
  • Recycling Saves Energy – Recycling a product needs less energy than to create an article from virgin material. For example, an aluminum product uses both the aluminum and the vast amount of energy to create it from raw. Thus by recycling an aluminum item, we can reuse the metal again and also save the huge energy which helps protect the environment.
  • Recycling Helps in Reducing Global Warming and Reduce Pollution – One of the main benefits of recycling is saving energy. Energy saving results in less release of carbon or greenhouse gases which are a byproduct formed by energy production, which is injurious and detrimental to the environment if released into the atmosphere.
  • Recycling Reduces Waste Products in Landfills – Waste that cannot be recycled typically ends up in the landfill. It is here that the waste is left to decay, rot or decompose, and this might take numerous years to fully decompose. More and more waste is being sent to the landfills, and if recycling does not happen than the landfill might be right behind our homes in the future.
  • Recycling helps in saving money – Recycled articles typically cost less. By using old material and a lot less energy, the recycled product can be sold for a very less amount as compared to items made using virgin materials. Apart from this, selling waste for recycling converts garbage into cash.

Recycling can also be done at home, and taught to the children as a good habit to be nurtured. Biodegradable waste can be used as compost for plants.

Essay on Recycling 400 Words

Recycling is essential for the environment. The government must invest in setting up systems to promote this practice. Individuals must also make some efforts to recycle whatever they can. The importance of recycling has been emphasized numerous times however still many people refrain from it.

Reasons Why People Don’t Recycle?

  • Recycling is Inconvenient

The primary reason according to a survey conducted for not recycling was that people don’t find this practice as convenient or accessible to them. It means they have to take the extra step for dropping their household waste at the scrap dealer or recycling center. There aren’t enough recycling bins in many apartments or societies. Somebody who is not interested might just think there is no recycling program but it isn’t true. Recycling requires a little effort as you won’t see a scrap drop off center until you look for it.

  • People don’t Understand Recycling

Another reason for not recycling is that people are not able to differentiate between the recyclable and non-recyclable products. According to them, recycling is confusing.

  • Space Constraint

People generally have small houses and lack of space is an issue for many. They don’t want to see junk lying around their house where space is a problem.

  • I will recycle only if I am paid

This is also a lame excuse which people give when asked about recycling. According to them disposing of the scrap does not pay them well or there is no incentive involved. Many of the people don’t feel necessary to recycle until there is any monetary gain involved in it.

  • Recycling Does not Make a Difference

One big misconception people have is that recycling does not make any difference. They don’t really have the knowledge about the amount of recycled items and its quantity. People also believe that earth’s natural resources are in abundance.

  • No Wish to be Green

There are people who don’t care about the global warming and pollution. These things are very low on their priority list. Hence, they lack the motivation to contribute to an initiative like recycling for a green-friendly environment.

We humans have done a lot of harm to the atmosphere over the years. Global warming is a result of our mistakes. Recycling can prevent wastage of natural resources. It can prevent pollution, can save the environment, and helps to create more useful items. So it is our responsibility towards the environment and we should also teach others to recycle if we want to save our planet.

Essay on Recycling 500 Words

Recycling includes the procedure of collecting waste materials and breaking them down into building blocks that can be turned into new products. There are mainly five kinds of waste materials. These include paper, steel, glass, aluminum and plastic. All these are recycled using different methodologies.

The Procedure of Recycling

Here is how different things are recycled and made to be used again:

Paper – Paper waste contains paper sheets, newspapers, cardboards and other printed papers used in offices, educational institutes etc. Paper is made of 2 components – wood & water. So through recycling, the paper is first broken down into these 2 component parts to reform it. The contamination like ink and dirt is filtered out. Paper is compiled and is given a hot water bath. This bath quickly breaks the paper down into tiny strands of cellulose fiber, giving a mushy substance called ‘PULP’ – basically wet lumpy paper. The paper is still dirty though. Further, it is forced into a screen where remaining dirt is taken out like glue or plastic particles. Then it is sent to D-inker where another bath is given which contains air bubbles and soap like chemical called ‘Surfactant’ that separates the paper from the ink. Air bubbles carry the ink up to the surface and pulp which sinks to the bottom. That pulp is now clean and can be formed into new paper products.

Steel – Steel can be recycled over and over again without losing any of its properties. With the help of the liquid floating system, high air-pressure system, steel is separated from other metal and then it is cut down further by Hydraulic machinery by exerting enormous pressure. Sometimes gas and plasma arch are used too. Steel is then melted down and shaped into new items like – cans, utensils, car parts, paper clips etc.

Glass – Glass is shattered and broken down into tiny pieces called ‘Cullet’ which are no longer than 5 cm wide. Glass pieces are sorted into colored, clear, brown and green color. Differentiating colors is important as it is permanent. Glass is made of Silica, which is melted down and molded into new shapes and products.

Aluminum – Similar to steel, once it is separated there is nothing much to do with it when it comes to making aluminum re-usable. It’s shredded, washed and turned into chips, which are melted in a large furnace and then poured into molds. Then they are shipped to manufacturers where they are melted again and rolled into thin sheets that can be cut, bent and shaped into new products.

Plastic – Plastic is made of one of 6 different types of chemicals – Polyethylene terephthalate, high-density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, low-density polyethylene, polypropylene and polystyrene. Each plastic has a different molecular structure which determines the physical properties of the plastic, which means some plastic is easier to recycle than the others. Plastic is made of large carbon chains so some of the forms of plastic can be melted down and reformed while others can be mixed with new plastic and yet others can only be molded into other shapes for different uses.

Numerous items, like plastic bags and food wrappers, don’t last long, but they linger in the environment for hundreds of years. When plastic waste ends up on land, it forms landfills, and when we burn it, it causes air pollution and leads to lung-related health problems.

Almost anything can be recycled and waste can be given new shape for re-usage but still there are some items and materials like computers, batteries, light bulb etc which are complex to recycle as they largely contain toxins. Hence, we must dispose of them responsibly.

Essay on Recycling 600 Words

We humans have done lot of harm to the atmosphere over the years. Global warming is a result of our mistakes. Recycling can prevent wastage of natural resources. It can prevent pollution; can save the environment and help create more useful items. Recycling is a vital factor in preserving natural resources and greatly contributes towards improving the environment.

Household Recycling

Recycling in and around the home is quite simple once you have the knowledge. By thinking rigorously regarding what product you purchase at the food market and the way to recycle them is the beginning towards economical recycling.

  • Recycling different household materials – Many materials are often recycled like paper, plastic, metal, and glass. Alternative things like an article of furniture, equipment, artifact, and vehicles can also be recycled however many of us don’t typically try to do that.
  • Buy a product that may be recycled – When looking at the grocery, purchase products that may be recycled simply like glass jars and tin cans.
  • Buy merchandise that is made up of recycled material – You can tell if a product is eco-friendly by viewing the label on the packaging.
  • Avoid shopping of unsafe material – It is troublesome to recycle the product that contains unsafe waste. Try and realize safer alternatives to house cleaners and get non-toxic products whenever possible.
  • Recycle bins – Make sure you’ve got a recycle bin in your home. Keep it in a clear place thus you won’t forget to use it. Your native council ought to be able to offer you with a recycle bin that may be used for materials like glass, paper, aluminum, and plastic.

Recycling in the Garden

By recycling garden products and planting trees, you can help improve the environment in your garden.

  • Composting – Composting is a method where waste degrades into compost, which might then be utilized in your garden to assist plant growth. It’s a superb way to recycle garden and room waste like plant trimmings and leftover food.
  • Grass Cycling – Grass cycling is a superb approach of recycling grass cuttings after mowing the lawn. Simply leave the cuttings on the bottom rather than throwing them away, they’ll develop into nutrients and act as a fertilizer within the soil.
  • Sow Seeds – Don’t throw away left over fruits and vegetable seeds in the dustbin. Instead sow them in your garden. Growing plants and trees will enhance the surroundings by reducing global warming and providing home for several birds and creatures.

Recycling in the Community

  • Local Recycling Facilities – Recycling facilities are provided for community use. Verify wherever your local recycling facilities are and the way to use them.
  • Schools and Businesses – These can play a vital role in recycling. Follow the recycling schemes provided by your faculties or at workplace and think about ways to improve them.
  • Community Projects – Become involved in local community projects concerning recycling by donating cash or providing and implementing new concepts.
  • Cash for Cans – This project offers cash to those who recycle their aluminum cans. There are over 500, money for cans sites around the United Kingdom. In India we have scrap dealers where we can exchange these items for cash. This is a very good initiative, therefore, we should also get involved and earn a little of additional cash by this method.

Following these simple steps we might contribute a little for the environment which shall certainly be fruitful in the long run. This would not only benefit the environment but also the individuals. So, before you throw something away, think first, if it can be reused.

Essay on Recycling FAQs

How do you write a recycling essay.

To write a recycling essay, start with an introduction, discuss the benefits, methods, and challenges of recycling, and conclude with a summary.

How will recycling help us essay 250 words?

Recycling helps by reducing waste, conserving resources, and protecting the environment.

Why is it important to recycle?

Recycling is important because it conserves resources, reduces pollution, and lessens the impact on our planet.

What is recycling short note?

Recycling is the process of reusing materials to create new products and reduce waste.

What is the recycling of plastic short notes?

Recycling plastic means converting used plastic items into new products, reducing plastic waste.

Why is recycling important for plastic?

Recycling is vital for plastic because it decreases plastic pollution, conserves resources, and minimizes harm to ecosystems.

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Recycling In High Schools

Hannah Schreader Mrs. Tambornino Honors Biology 04 May 2017 Recycling in Schools Recycling is one of the famous three R’s (reduce, reuse, and recycle) known throughout the world. These three R’s were placed to keep Earth clean from debris created by humans, animals, and other actions. Mt. Juliet High School has accomplished many great things but there's one thing I think we can all agree on: we are lacking a recycling program. Yes, some classes have cardboard boxes for paper recycling but they don’t receive the attention they deserve. Recycling even the littlest thing like paper can lead to a difference. Throwing away paper eventually find its way to sitting in a pile of garbage piling up on our Earth. Garbage may be little in your house but everyday, according to The Atlantic, “The typical person in a developed country produces about 2.6 pounds of garbage a day.” We have produced over 2.6 trillion pounds of garbage and it all ends up piling into every spot on the Earth. According to The Atlantic, “59% of garbage goes to a landfill , 33% in dumps, …show more content…

One negative is the cost of starting a program and recycling sites. Recycling is not always the cost-effective choice to jump into but the outcome is something to consider. Recycling also lacks a global buy-in as many think that recycling isn’t necessary the number one thing to drop everything and do it. Recycling to most people just bypasses their thoughts. What people don’t realize is that our Earth isn’t perfect on it’s own. It takes people who are willing to work and protect our Earth. Overall having a recycling program can help students learn about Earth and how to care for it. Recycling can teach young teens to understand the value of everything we have. Having a clean school campus and a clean environment can lead to a tremendous outcome in teens and our surroundings. Recycling even the littlest thing like paper can lead to a

Deforestation In America's Rainforests

Everyone has been told to do this, but I don’t think everyone sees the importance of recycling. Sure, a lot of people recycle, but there are a lot that don’t. Recycling has many benefits, but the major benefit is less destruction of forests. Again, the rising population calls for many products that are made from trees, mainly paper. Everybody in the world uses paper, whether it be in the form of books, pencils, toilet paper, towels, and even shoes. All these paper products, and more, are a direct result of deforestation, for the trees are taken down and turned into these products. Say you have a whole box of school papers that you don’t need anymore, and you want to throw them in the trash. Instead of throwing it in the trash, you should recycle it. When you recycle it, the paper goes to a factory, which adds other products to it, melts it down, and molds it into other products. This process can eventually rule out the need for deforestation, reducing the effects of climate change. Clearly, recycling is one of the many sustainable solutions that can hopefully stop

The Reign Of Recycling

There are many programs but too little enthusiasm. ”Recycling programs abound, but people are often lackadaisical about putting plastic,paper, glass and metal into those bins”(“How Do You Encourage Recycling”). The world has enough programs but it need more people. People need to think about how recycling helps everything and everyone around them. ”They asked people to think more abstractly about why recycling contributed to the community, air, land, and water resources “(“How Do You Encourage Recycling”). When people recycle they need to remember why they are doing this and what it helps. The world needs to look at what it can gain or lose when recycling and not recycling. ”Marketing professor Kate White of University of British Columbia shared studies that looked at two kinds of messages:those that highlight the negative consequences of not recycling,loss framed message, versus those that emphasize the positive consequences of recycling,gain framed message.”(“How Do You Encourage Recycling”). These messages will address what people can gain and lose. Motivating people to recycle could make a huge change in land pollution even solve the problem with

Persuasive Essay On Recycling

One of the biggest reasons recycling should be taken so serious is because of its positive affect on the environment. Without recycling, so many goods that have potential to be repurposed are thrown into landfills. These landfills are piled up and affect the lives of countless wildlife. This quote by Allen Hershkowitz shows the enormity of the helpfulness of recycling. “Because using recycled materials reduces the need to extract, process, refine, and transport the timber, crude petroleum, ores, and so on that are necessary for virgin-based paper, plastics, glass, and metals, recycling lessens the toxic air emissions, effluents, and solid wastes that these manufacturing processes create” (Hershkowitz). Not having to put the weight of everyone’s trash trash on the world’s land and instead, repurposing it into something usable saves so many resources. Recycling not only leaves more room for things where the trash would have gone, but it also means that the people living here will get farther with the resources they have. The more that is taken from the earth the less there will be for those in the future, so saving and taking care of what is here is very important. The ones living in the world today are the people who are get to decide how the people of the generations to come are going to live. People should not want their kids living in a world of filth and pollution where no one cares about the world they are living on. An article by Omid Nodoushani discussed in depth the terrible amounts of pollution that is

Persuasive Speech About Recycling

Recycling doesn’t affect people that much, but it does affect wildlife and animals. Like the six pack rings, soda comes in, fish get caught in it and they die. Another thing is plastic bags get thrown into the ocean and turtles mistake it for jellyfish, eat it and die. Would you believe me if I told you that glass, aluminum, paper and plastic are not A report from the Federal Highway Administration shows that 80 percent of the asphalt that is removed each year during widening and resurfacing is reused. Recycling has been around for thousands of years, but we still need to recycle even though people thought of this a long time ago. A consequence is the New York City Landfill. The New york city landfill contains 2.9 billion cubic feet of trash. The new york city landfill can be seen from space. The new york landfill is one of the only things that can be seen from space. Another consequence is that farmers in Wisconsin and Minnesota are just now starting to recycle. Minnesota and Wisconsin farms produce 60 million to 80 million pounds of plastic every year, but until now they had no way to get rid of it besides throwing

The Negative Effects Of Recycling And The Environment

Recycling is a very essential and crucial process in our world today. The term recycling means that waste can be converted into new products instead of being discarded. As the population continues to grow, humans are using more and more products. In order to reduce the amount of waste on planet Earth, and to preserve its resources, recycling is significant. Not only does recycling allow the environment to thrive, but it also allows living people to thrive as well. There are many materials that can be recycled. Plastics, electronics, aluminum, food and glass are only but a few products that can be recycled. Recycling can benefit our environment in numerous amount of ways. However, without recycling, negative impacts on our environment can occur. Some of these effects include pollution whether it is air, land or sea, depletion of natural resources and even an increase threat to global warming. Therefore, recycling is extremely important to sustain our environment.

Siouxland Persuasive Essay

For example, more than 80% of the oceans surfaces are covered in trash or polluted. Therefore, if we continue to throw trash away, many of our natural resources will be gone before our eyes. We are responsible for this planet so we should start treating it better. Not only would it help the planet but also it would protect our wildlife. One big result of not recycling is the Great Barrier Reef. Recently the Great Barrier Reef has been in its worst condition as possible. There has been tons of trash surfacing the water, the wild life as starting to die out because of it and the list continues. But thankfully, there are people out there that are trying to save it from becoming nothing but a polluted ocean. Another reason why we should recycle is it creates more jobs more people. An estimated 1.56 billion people in the US are currently homeless. Why not help them out and the environment by hiring more people for recycling related jobs. It would not only help the environment but it would help people in need for

Mills High School Composting

Have you ever walked around a school campus just minutes after the lunch break? Well if you have, you may have observed the absurd amount of wasted food spilling out of trash cans and scattered around the concrete floors. It makes you realize how much food we waste daily, and how preventable that is. With that, it is mandatory that Mills High School should be required to have composting and more recycling bins around campus, this would be beneficial to our planet and the upcoming generations.

How To Keep America Clean

Recycling is one of the most common ways to keep America clean. The recycling bins are one of the most recognizable logos across the world. People all across the U.S. have recycling bins, inside of their household. The sad thing is most people do not use them, they most of the time just throw stuff in the regular trash that could be recycled. For example, plastic, paper, cans, glass, cardboard, and even computer hardware (www.recycleacrossamerica.org). People don’t realize that they could be doing the world a big favor, just by recycling these everyday items.

Recycling In Mount Juliet High School

Many people go through their day not even thinking about recycling and what it can do for our environment. We, the school, could absolutely benefit from a recycling program. So many people think that recycling is a waste of time and how the energy it takes to recycle is equal to the amount it takes to simply throw your trash away. They don’t actually think about the positive effects it could have to the school. This is why putting a recycling program in Mount Juliet High School can not only help our environment as a whole, but can also help us see the reality of what recycling can do.

Lago High School Green Club

Ever since I was young, I’ve always wanted to change the world. I suppose I got this notion by watching superhero shows as a kid. However, unlike the heroes on television, I didn’t have any powers; therefore, I had to think of a new way to change the world. Thus, I came up with the idea of recycling. Annually, we dump over two billion tons of waste into landfills. The waste from these landfills contributes to environmental problems. Consequently, we can’t go a day without recycling, or we risk the chance of destroying the Earth through accumulation of pollution. Unfortunately, recycling is taken too lightly; that’s why I’ve made it my mission to inform my community of the necessity of recycling.

Recycling In America Essay

One of the most prominent issues in the American society is not an economic or social problem, but the lack of recycling in America and the effect it is having on the environment and the people. This lack of recycling can be found in businesses and schools across America who could benefit from some sort of recycling program installed. The benefits of a well placed and organized recycling program can be endless from scholarships to the benefits it can have on the environment by saving trees and reducing the space need to dispose all the trash. South Caldwell High School is one of these schools across the country that is at a loss because of its lack of a recycling program and many other schools and businesses in Caldwell county are not reaping

Recycling As A Simple Process During The 1900s

During the 1900s, Americans realized the amount of waste they produce and the damage that comes along with it. Average people see recycling as a simple process. Placing items such as glass, plastics, aluminum, and paper on their curb or dropping them off at recycling centers takes part of their weekly routine. However, many lack knowledge as to what happens to their products after this step. Intricate, but crucial, recycling helps improve our environment.

Sustainable College Campus Essay

There will be trash bins located everywhere trash cans are at on campus for plastic, paper, and glass. When recycling plastic “the amount of energy which can be saved by using recycled plastics instead of raw materials in the production of goods is nearly seventy percent” (Recycling saves). And when glass is recycled “air pollution [is reduced] by 20 percent and related water pollution by 50 percent. If it isn't recycled it can take a million years to decompose.” (50 Ways). The benefits of recycling have always been obvious; the more we recycle the less products we use and the less we damage our earth any

Western Michigan University Recycling

Data collection will take place over the summer and fall of 2017 and will include: research of other schools with superior and inferior recycling habits, surveys, and interviews. To solve any problem, it is best to collect as much data as possible and looks for the trends that appear. The surveys will allow a larger collection of primary data and the research allows a greater collection of secondary data. We can derive further knowledge with extensive data collection because recycling affects everyone on the planet. Research may also provide some questions and problems not originally part of this research question and could provide further depth into the subject. With enough research the question should have an

Importance of Recycling at the University Essay

recycling campaign. The only way to do that is to help make recycling appeal to more of the vast student population that currently attends our University. How might this be done? The University already places a recycling bin in every dorm room around the campus; anything more would exceed the current funding for the recycling project. Perhaps the institution of a recycling center at the Russell House could cause the impulse to become a habit. But, that would take too much money--with the salaries of workers and the annexing of what would amount to a new wing of the building--to consider for too long. Another solution could be to have the students elect a "recycling committee" to evaluate the problem and decide on the appropriate solution. However, I feel that with the current lull in our recycling campaign, even that would be ineffective. As an altrenative to these two solutions I propose that we, as students and faculty united, institute a plan that is so simple it is already in place in many of the high schools around the state. I propose a system of rewards.

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Daily News Lesson

March 21, 2024, 2:08 p.m.

The plastic industry knowingly pushed recycling myth for decades, new report finds

The world produces an average of 430 million metric tons of plastic each year. The United States alone produces tens of millions of tons of plastic waste annually. Yet on average, only about 5 to 6 percent of plastic in the U.S. is recycled. NPR correspondent Michael Copley joins Ali Rogin to discuss a new report on the plastic industry’s tactics to push recycling and avoid regulation.

View the transcript of the story.

News alternative : Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.

WARM UP QUESTIONS

  • Who produces 10s of millions of tons of plastic every year?
  • What is "advanced recycling"?
  • When did the skepticism about the effectiveness of recycling within the plastic industry emerge?
  • How does the plastics industry propose to address plastic waste?
  • Why has there been historical skepticism within the plastic industry regarding the effectiveness of recycling?

FOCUS QUESTIONS

What role does public trust play in the effectiveness of the plastics industry's claims about future recycling initiatives?

Media literacy : How can students stay informed about climate change topics?

Alternative : See, Think, Wonder : What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What would you want to find out more about?

What students can do :

Watch the Student Reporting Labs video and answer the following question: What are some benefits of recycling?

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  • Reducing Waste at Schools

More Resources

  • PCBs in Schools

Schools accumulate tons of waste—from paper and computers to food and books. By learning how to properly handle this waste, school can influence the future of their school, school district, and students, and have a significant impact on the environment.

Tools to Reduce Waste in Schools

Tools to reduce waste in schools

Audience: Facility managers, custodians, principals and school administrators, school green teams 

With this guide EPA aims to make wase reduction efforts and environmental protection feasible and practical for schools and school districts

This easy-to-use resource will help schools and school districts implement new, or expand upon existing, waste reduction programs.

  • Tools to Reduce Waste in Schools(PDF)  

Green Supplies and Waste in the Cafeteria

Audience: Facility managers, custodians, cafeteria managers, and school green teams

Students, parents, and teachers can all make a difference in reducing waste at school. By practicing the "3 R's" of waste reduction—reduce, reuse, and recycle—we can all do our part.

  • Tips for students and schools regarding green supplies and in the cafeteria  

Model Recycling Program Toolkit

This toolkit can help schools create effective programs for recycling, composting, anaerobic digestion, reuse, repair and waste reduction. Materials in the toolkit can help communities increase participation in recycling programs and reduce contamination in the recycling stream.

  • Model Recycling Program Toolkit  

Audience: Facility managers, custodians, principals and school administrators

Find information and resources about Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), including factsheets, posters and more. PCBs, commonly used in building materials, were banned in 1979, but could still be affecting children's health. 

  • Western States PEHSUs: PCBs webpage  
  • Healthy Schools Home
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  • Resources for Educators

The plastics industry would like a word with your kids

School campuses are a new battleground in an increasingly bitter brawl over plastic’s impact on the environment.

recycling in school essay

WARREN, Mich. — Wearing a lab coat, Eve Vitale asked a chemistry class at Warren Mott High School if anyone had heard anything bad about plastics. Hands shot up. It doesn’t degrade, said one student. It hurts the environment, said another.

But “that’s not really the plastic’s fault,” said Vitale, chief executive of the Society of Plastics Engineers Foundation, a group of industry professionals. “That’s the fault of humanity.” After warning what a “mess” it would be in supermarkets and hospitals without plastics, Vitale instructed that the plastic pollution crisis could be addressed through stepped up personal responsibility, product innovation and improvements in recycling.

School campuses are a new battleground in an increasingly bitter brawl over plastics, as groups like Vitale’s seek to improve the reputation of a material that has become infamous as an environmental menace. The efforts are partially funded by companies involved in or dependent on fossil fuel production, through donations and conference sponsorships. Plastics manufacturing involves large amounts of oil and natural gas. Some of these companies see plastics as an opportunity to continue growing as demand for gasoline and diesel dissipates amid the rise of electric vehicles.

Vitale’s group dispatches its “PlastiVan” program throughout the academic year, with its team of plastic evangelists talking up the wonders of polymers to young audiences. Once housed out of an actual van, the program has since grown into a sophisticated messaging and recruitment operation, visiting as many as 175 schools annually. In Northeast Texas, hundreds of Girl Scouts have been awarded a PlastiVan-sponsored merit badge .

Another industry ally working separate from PlastiVan, conservative advocacy group PragerU, provides public school teachers in at least five states a classroom video that assures students they should not feel guilty about using so much plastic because plastics actually help the environment — an assertion many environmental scientists would find absurd.

Yet industry plans for the future are confronting a hostile regulatory landscape . Even in the classroom, the industry is finding itself up against tough adversaries. Anti-plastics groups are promoting their own lesson plans , which push a very different perspective, one that focuses on industry culpability and guides students to organize against single-use plastics .

Burning trash for the planet? Climate cash sets off branding frenzy.

“This is a huge fight for the future of our kids,” said Margaret Galbraith, who coordinates a program in Port Washington, N.Y., with students working to ban single-use plastics from school cafeterias and older kids visiting elementary school classrooms to teach about the ills of plastic use. “The industry wants to lay the pollution problem on individual consumers; meanwhile, it is impossible for individuals to fix this. Plastic pollution is everywhere because of these companies. Recycling as a solution is a myth. It’s crazy to me that schools would let them come in to promote this false solution.”

“Overuse” of plastics, particularly single-use plastics like water bottles, has created an “environmental catastrophe,” according to the United Nations , with roughly 12 million tons of plastic swept into the oceans each year. Microplastics permeate the food chain, showing up in 83 percent of our tap water and have even been discovered in human placentas . Recycling has been a grossly inadequate fix: Only 9 percent of plastics is successfully recycled, and 40 percent of material collected in recycling bins ends up in the trash, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development .

Over the last 20 years, with recycling programs in full swing, global plastic waste doubled.

But public school students are encouraged not to worry about it in the pro-industry teachings recently approved for classroom use in Florida, Oklahoma, Arizona and Montana, as well as some Texas school districts. In those places, state officials greenlit PragerU videos and lesson plans aimed at providing students an “alternative to the dominant left-wing ideology in culture, media, and education.”

Much of the organization’s seed money came from Dan and Farris Wilks, billionaire brothers from Texas who made their fortune from fracking and run a church called the Assembly of Yahweh, where they have preached that climate change is God’s will. Among the PragerU videos targeted at public school students is a 10-minute cartoon about plastics.

In it, a child comes home from school stressed out because his math teacher is trying to enlist students in her crusade to get rid of all plastic on campus. “She really scared me,” the boy says. “If it’s so bad for the environment, why is it in almost everything?”

The boy and his sister travel back in time to meet Belgian chemist Leo Baekeland, who developed the first synthetic plastics. Baekeland persuades them that plastics are good for the environment, eliminating the need to kill endangered animals and deplete forests to get resources previously used to make everyday products.

The chemist is shocked to learn that people of the future are concerned about the amount of fossil fuels used in plastic production. “Fossil fuels are cheap and plentiful, thank goodness,” the scientist says. “So we don’t need to use living animals, and we can create items that improve the lives of everyone.”

The lessons taught by PlastiVan are more nuanced, acknowledging the scourge of plastic pollution but sharply diverging with environmental groups and many political leaders on how to address it. PlastiVan officials say they are the ones promoting realistic solutions.

“Science-based information which contradicts anti-plastics positions deserves inclusion and equal weight in these discussions,” Vitale said in an email. “We certainly want to empower students to look at all data and decide for themselves whether the fallacy of ‘we should ban ALL plastics’ is something that is truly possible.”

Student activists are pushing for greener schools

Environmental groups counter that banning all plastics has never been the goal. They accuse the industry of deliberately confusing consumers and students.

A representative from Braskem, a Brazilian petrochemical company — which has its logo emblazoned on Vitale’s lab coat — that provides major funding for the PlastiVan program, said in an email that the company’s interest is inspiring “the next generation of STEM leaders.” The company said providing an alternative to the anti-plastics messaging of environmental groups is not its motivation. Another sponsor, Husky , which makes injection molding systems for the plastics industry, said in a statement that “introducing young minds to the world of plastics education encourages them to think about how we can each take actions to move towards a circular economy.”

Other backers of the program include Chevron, DuPont and the Plastics Industry Association. Proceeds from industry conferences also help fund it, along with dues paid by individuals to the Society of Plastics Engineers.

Plastics production is skyrocketing. A new U.N. treaty effort could cap it.

The chemistry students who took part in a PlastiVan lesson Vitale taught recently at Warren Mott High School in the Detroit area took to Vitale’s narrative.

“It widens your perspective on plastics,” said Fateha Qureshi, a junior. “You’re told by the media a lot that plastics is a bad thing and how we should stop using it. She was talking about how it can be a good thing. When you learn more, you learn better things, too.”

The perspective was shared by fellow junior Syed Jamal. “I feel like these problems could be fixed if we made better use of the polluted plastic,” he said after the class.

At a Plastics Industry Association conference in the spring , Vitale highlighted how the PlastiVan program is able to collect up to 25,000 “data points” from students each year, which inform student perceptions of the industry and can be used to guide lesson plans. The program, she said at the Minneapolis event, enables tracking of where in the country anxiety about plastic pollution is highest.

“The anti-plastics people make people feel guilty,” Vitale said at the event, a recording of which was shared with The Washington Post by an attendee. “People don’t want to feel guilty, so they push it off on us. We have to fight back with stories of our own.”

Sometimes students are even recruited to help write those stories, like the recent graduate of a Milwaukee-area high school who in the spring penned an essay from the perspective of plastic trash.

“I’m not the bad guy here,” said the piece, which earned a cash prize from a local chapter of the Society of Plastics Engineers. “Have you seen what is happening to the trees, how about the earth’s crust from all that mining? I’m not the problem, the problem is humans. I’m important in all parts of their lives and people still throw me into rivers and lakes.”

The PlastiVan program is focused on the classroom, but its motto — “changing the perception of plastics, one classroom at a time” — makes clear the industry’s hope that the persuasion effort will resonate far beyond it at a time plastic companies are under siege.

The United Nations is pursuing a legally binding international treaty to end plastics pollution , with many nations pushing for limits on plastic production that are fiercely opposed by industry. In Congress, more than 140 lawmakers have sponsored legislation in recent years that would ban certain single-use plastics and place a moratorium on new factories.

It all has put an industry not accustomed to losing control of the narrative in a bind, said Judith Enck, a former regional administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency who is now the president of the advocacy group Beyond Plastics .

“This is an industry that has successfully confused people by putting a recycling logo on many plastic items that are not even recyclable,” she said. As the industry now promotes what it calls more advanced recycling technologies, such as chemical processes that melt down the materials and repurpose them into other products, it is facing unprecedented scrutiny from activists and regulators who are challenging its claims about sustainability and pointing out the industry’s history of overpromising and underdelivering on pollution mitigation.

“If [PlastiVan] really were an educational presentation, they would be talking about why it is impossible to achieve higher recycling rates because of the thousands of different chemicals used to make plastics and the many different colors and different polymers,” Enck said. “A teacher could be explaining to these students why so much of plastic is fundamentally not recyclable. Telling high school kids these problems can be solved by recycling more is disingenuous.”

You’re probably recycling wrong. This quiz will help you sort it out.

Promoters of the industry-aligned education programs say they are providing a public service, often going into schools that are located in areas where the industry has a major presence — such as Detroit, where plastics have a big role in auto production — and inspiring local students to pursue the meaningful careers it offers.

Not everyone in these communities, though, is impressed. As Beyond Plastics recently prepared to lead journalists on a “toxics tour” of Port Arthur, Tex., a city dominated by petrochemical factories, some of the educators and activists who came along suggested a more balanced public school program would include bringing students on such a tour.

“What the plastics industry is doing here is not that different than what the tobacco industry used to do in schools,” said Robert Bullard , a professor of urban planning and environmental policy at Texas Southern University who is known as the father of the modern environmental justice movement . “They are exploiting an educational system that oftentimes embraces free materials and something that may have the appearance of rigor, but is really about industry peddling a message that their harmful product is good.”

recycling in school essay

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Paragraph on Recycling

Students are often asked to write a paragraph on Recycling in their schools. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 200-word, and 250-word paragraphs on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

Paragraph on Recycling in 100 Words

Recycling means taking old things like paper, cans, and bottles and making them into new things. It’s like magic! Instead of throwing stuff away, we give it another chance to be useful. It helps our planet by cutting down on trash and saving trees and animals. When we recycle, we also use less energy. Imagine a water bottle turning into a backpack or an old newspaper becoming a new coloring book. We can help by putting things in the right bins at home or school. Recycling is a super way to keep our Earth clean and happy. Let’s all do it together!

Paragraph on Recycling in 200 Words

Recycling is like a superhero for our Earth. It is the process of taking things that have already been used and making them into new things. Imagine you have a water bottle. When you finish drinking the water, instead of throwing the bottle away, you place it in a special bin. Later, this bottle is collected and sent to a place where it is cleaned and changed into something new, like a t-shirt or a toy. This is great because it means we don’t have to use new materials from nature to make these things. It helps us save trees, water, and energy. Recycling also keeps our planet clean. It’s like playing a game where every time you recycle, you score points for the Earth. You can recycle paper, plastic, metal, and glass. It’s easy to do! Just remember to put the right things in the recycling bin. When we recycle, we help keep our world happy and healthy. It’s a way of sharing love with our environment and making sure we have a beautiful place to live, play, and grow. So next time you see a recycling bin, remember, you’re helping the Earth with every item you recycle!

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Paragraph on Recycling in 250 Words

Recycling is like giving old things a new life instead of throwing them away. Imagine you have a water bottle. When it’s empty, instead of tossing it in the bin, you put it in a special recycling bin. Later, that bottle is collected and taken to a place where it’s cleaned and made into something new, like a t-shirt or even a bench for the park. This is good for our planet because making things from recycled materials uses less energy and water than making them from new materials. It also means we don’t need to take as much from nature, like cutting down trees or mining for metals. Every time we recycle, we help reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills or in the ocean, which can harm animals and our environment. Everyone can help by separating their trash into recyclables and non-recyclables. Schools and communities often have programs to teach us what can be recycled and how to do it. By recycling, we also save money because companies don’t have to spend as much to make new things. It’s like a big circle – we use something, recycle it, and then use it again in a different form. If everyone makes an effort to recycle more, we can keep our Earth cleaner and healthier for ourselves and future generations. So next time you finish a drink or a snack, think about where that packaging could go. With a little effort, we can all make a big difference.

That’s it! I hope the paragraphs have helped you.

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Articles & Advice > College Admission > Blog

Reuse or Recycle: How to Manage College Essay Material

The key to the college admission process is being as efficient as possible. Here's how to be smart about organizing and reusing essay materials for multiple schools.

by José Iván Román College Admission Consultant, Solomon Admissions

Last Updated: Mar 16, 2023

Originally Posted: Jun 22, 2021

The college application process can be an overwhelming experience: you have to draft numerous versions of your personal statements and supplemental essays, refine the content of your activities list, and research various schools while also working on rigorous class assignments, tests, and final projects. And don’t forget the demands of your extracurricular activities and other commitments with family and friends. As Early Action and Early Decision application deadlines draw near, you’ll likely feel exhausted and stressed. 

Navigating the admission process is like managing a major project—there are many moving parts that require a great deal of attention. The Common Application exists in part because universities recognize the value of streamlining this process. Effective project management could be a stress reliever for any applicant, and you can start by streamlining your college essays. You may have several more applications to prepare, but you can be confident in your ability to pull through the remainder of the application process by reusing certain essay material efficiently. Here’s how! 

Adapting essay material

It makes sense for your Common App personal statement to remain the same for every school receiving a copy of your application. Customizing a personal statement for each school would defeat the practical purpose of the Common App. On the other hand, would it be beneficial or advisable to recycle your supplemental essays? You should develop your own system for structuring each essay that grants you the flexibility of customizing for each school receiving your application. There are two major categories of essay material:

  • Biographical
  • School s pecific

Biographical material offers experiences and reflections that are unique to an applicant ’ s character, while school-specific material addresses unique characteristics of a college that connect with the applicant ’ s values and interests. You may notice your early application essays already have quality blocks of biographical content that you can fluidly adapt for future essays. 

Carefully review each essay prompt for any school you’re applying to and determine if any essays require school-specific content. It could be that the same essay can be adapted to address the questions or prompts for various schools; however, you can improve the quality and impact of each essay by incorporating material that’s unique to each school. Streamline this process by creating a structure for your essays that allows you to predictably manage your school-specific content. For example, connect with each school ’ s unique traditions, programs, campus culture, surrounding neighborhoods, etc. You could potentially save precious time and mental energy by applying a consistent structure to your essays. 

Related: Video: College Essay Q&A With Expert Kim Lifton

Proofread your work

Application reviewers are experienced and pick up on many nuances. It’s imperative to do your research on each school. Be sure to reference the appropriate school ’ s programs, institutes, offerings, traditions, etc.If you wish to use similar essays for multiple schools, be sure to proofread them carefully prior to final submission . It’s in your best interest to not accidentally include the name of the wrong school in any of your essays. This advice might seem intuitive, but it’s easy to overlook these small details when you’re rushing to meet application deadlines. Although it’s not necessarily a disqualifying error, including the name of the wrong school in an essay certainly doesn’t give a good impression or make the admission process easier for you. Admission committees understand that we’re all human and are likely to make mistakes; nevertheless, they appreciate the courtesy and respect of applicants who follow instructions and proofread their work carefully.

Trust your approach

The college admission process can challenge a student ’ s stamina and spirit. Many hopeful students pour their souls into their applications, particularly the essays. As with many long-term projects, the earlier you tackle the most demanding tasks, the more manageable the process will become later in the timeline. One way to set yourself up for success is by indexing your essay material in a way that allows you to search and identify content in an efficient manner. This approach to managing essay material doesn’t suggest reusing or recycling entire essays verbatim. Stay true to your authenticity while remaining practical. 

Related: College Application Essays: Our Best Advice

Colleges and universities expect the most competitive candidates to be exceptional in their ability to manage time, prioritize commitments, and leverage resources. The college application process is a major test of a candidate's management skills. By remaining earnest and organized, you can be confident in your approach to the process. 

Check out the articles in our College Admission section for more expert advice on college essays.

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About José Iván Román

Jos é Iván Román is a College Admission Consultant at  Solomon Admissions . He previously served as an academic advisor at Northeastern University for six years, where he advised students in the University Honors Program, the College of Health Sciences, and the College of Engineering. As Assistant Director of the Northeastern University Honors Program, Jos é Iván contributed to developing and overseeing programs for high-achieving students, including research opportunities, co-op and extracurricular programming, and scholarships.

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recycling in school essay

North Coast Courier

Recycling in action at North Coast schools

Pupils receive pencil cases made from recycled plastic bottles as part of pick n pay's recycling drive..

recycling in school essay

Grade 4 pupils at two North Coast primary schools recently received recycled pencil cases as part of Pick n Pay’s (PnP) drive to teach pupils about the importance of recycling.

More than 35 000 pencil cases made from recycled plastic bottles were donated to 200 schools countrywide last week, including local schools, Glenhills and Dawnview primary schools.

During each donation event, Pick n Pay School Club delivers an engaging educational session highlighting the significance of recycling.

This includes distributing informative posters for display in schools, demonstrating the transformative power of recycling as exemplified by the pencil cases.

“By empowering pupils with knowledge about recycling’s benefits, we hope to foster recycling habits that extend into schools, homes and communities,” said Vaughan Pierce, environmental, social and governance integration executive at PnP.

This marks the fourth consecutive year of PnP’s pencil case donations, reaching more than 136 000 pupils while educating them about responsible recycling practices.

Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on  Facebook ,  X ,  Instagram  &  YouTube  for the latest news.

Mobile users can join our  WhatsApp Broadcast Service here  or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.

recycling in school essay

State should expand early college/dual enrollment programs for high school students

Early college/dual enrollment programs can be transformative for high school...

Early college/dual enrollment programs can be transformative for high school students. Credit: Newsday/John Paraskevas

High school students on Long Island and around the state have been able to earn college credits while still in high school for many years. Many school districts have outstanding programs through collaborations with colleges/universities.

Since college is so expensive and not always accessible to every student, it is time for New York to enter a new era of academic advancement. Early college/dual enrollment programs can be transformative for high school students by offering unique opportunities to amplify educational horizons and better equip students for the challenges that lie beyond the classroom.

Early college/dual enrollment programs allow students to simultaneously earn high school and college credit by taking courses at or offered by accredited colleges and universities. Our organization of school counselors provides guidance and recommendations for implementing and overseeing these programs across the state.

The New York State School Counselor Association believes these programs provide students with the opportunity to challenge themselves academically and that these programs should be available in all of New York's public schools. Though more than half of New York's high schools offer a dual enrollment program, only 15.8% of the state's high school students were enrolled in such a program in 2022, according to state Education Department data.

Access to these programs would help our high-schoolers make knowledgeable choices about their postsecondary education and career plans. This would enhance college accessibility and affordability by giving students a head start on their college education and thus saving students and their parents time and expense. This would, in turn, strengthen the partnership between our K-12 schools and colleges and universities.

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To make these programs rigorous, accessible, and equitable, we strongly suggest that the programs contain academic equivalence with the courses being offered to students by their high schools and that they be taught by qualified instructors with appropriate credentials and experience.

Also important is the factor of inclusivity. Dual enrollment programs should be inclusive and accessible to all students, regardless of their socioeconomic background, geography, race, gender, or abilities, and institutions must ensure that dual enrollment credits seamlessly transfer to colleges and universities within New York State.

It is critical that K-12 students have access to support services like counseling, academic advising, and academic support services to succeed in dual enrollment programs. Quality assurance should consist of regular evaluations and assessments of dual enrollment programs to maintain high-quality standards.

Administrative support is also crucial to success and to that end, we suggest creating an Office for Early College/Dual Enrollment Programs at the state Education Department with regional support centers and stable funding to support these initiatives.

Collaboration between K-12 schools, colleges, and universities is critical to foster successful dual enrollment programs. It is essential to establish clear communication channels, data-sharing agreements, and partnerships for program sustainability.

We advocate for policies that support dual enrollment programs, including pending legislation that provides TAP funding for school districts hosting dual enrollment programs and measures that promote equitable access for all students and provide resources and professional development opportunities for school counselors, educators, and administrators involved in dual enrollment to ensure best practices are followed.

The time to make this investment is now. Dual enrollment programs have the potential to significantly benefit New York State students in their pursuit of higher education and career success. We should do everything we can to help them on that journey.

This guest essay reflects the views of Robert Rotunda and Kelly Whitney-Rivera, executive director and advocacy & public policy chair, respectively, of the New York State School Counselor Association.

This guest essay reflects the views of Robert Rotunda and Kelly Whitney-Rivera, executive director and advocacy & public policy chair, respectively, of the New York State School Counselor Association.

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Guest Essay

One Way to Help a Journalism Industry in Crisis: Make J-School Free

An illustrated drawing of a man shackled to a ball and chain. The man, who has a pipe in his mouth and is wearing pinstripe pants, a pink shirt and tie and a red hat, is kneeling, using wire cutters to cut the chain tied to his ankle.

By Graciela Mochkofsky

Ms. Mochkofsky is the dean at CUNY’s Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism.

Many uncertainties haunt the field of journalism today — among them, how we can reach our audience, build public trust in our work, and who is going to pay for it all. But one thing is certain: as complicated and dark as the world looks today, it would be much worse if journalists were not there to report on it.

Research shows that towns that have lost sources of local news tend to suffer from lower voter turnout, less civic engagement and more government corruption. Journalists are essential just as nurses and firefighters and doctors are essential.

And to continue to have journalists, we need to make their journalism education free.

This might sound counterintuitive given the state of the industry. Shrinking revenue and decreasing subscription figures have led to a record number of newsroom jobs lost. Much of the local news industry has fallen into the hands of hedge funds focused on squeezing the last drops of revenue out of operations by decimating them. Billionaires who appeared as saviors just a few years ago have grown tired of losing money on the media organizations they bought. Public trust in the value of news is at historical lows, while a growing percentage of people are avoiding the news altogether.

Generative artificial intelligence, which is on the verge of reshaping almost everything around us, is bringing yet another technological disruption to the industry. Against this grim backdrop, authoritarian leaders are increasingly targeting journalists as political enemies both at home and abroad.

And yet there are still tens of thousands of jobs in news media in America, with exceptional journalism being produced every day. Some major organizations have even found ways to thrive in the digital age. Prominent foundation leaders have started an effort to pour hundreds of millions of philanthropic dollars into local journalism, and a movement has formed to push for federal and local legislation to direct public funding to news. An initiative to replant local news has founded dozens of nonprofit newsrooms in cities around the country. And a small but growing number of organizations are redefining the way news agendas are set, focusing on rebuilding public trust within small communities.

No matter how the news industry evolves, we will continue to need journalists. Successful business models for media are necessary, but the most crucial element for strong, independent journalism is the people who make it. Given the present stakes in the industry, our society and the world, we need mission-driven, imaginative news leaders who are not bound by the models of the past, who have the motivation and freedom to reimagine the field, and the empathy and commitment to serve the public interest, undaunted by attacks and threats.

We must also move beyond the lack of economic and demographic diversity that has long been a problem in the industry. News has too often been reported by predominantly middle-class, white, male journalists, resulting in coverage that has repeatedly missed the issues that are most important to the people receiving the news, contributing to the public’s lack of trust in the media.

In a resource-starved industry, few newsrooms can offer the type of mentoring, guidance and time that it takes to shape a great journalist. This is now primarily the responsibility of journalism schools. It is the civic duty of these schools to find and train reporters and news leaders, instill in them an ethical foundation, help develop their critical thinking skills, allow them to try and fail in a safe environment, open doors and provide a support network. (Journalism schools should also contribute research in a variety of areas, from the impact of A.I. to new business models to identifying and responding to emerging threats.)

But the cost of a journalism education has become an insurmountable barrier for exactly the kind of people we need the most. And those who, with great effort, manage to overcome that barrier, carry a weight that could limit their professional options.

Reporters burdened with debt are less likely to take professional risks and more likely to abandon the field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median reporter salary in America is less than $56,000 a year, or about $27 per hour. In low-income areas, where news deserts are more prevalent, annual salaries can be as low as $20,000. A Wall Street Journal report about the debt-to-income ratio of alumni of 16 journalism masters programs found that many graduates leave with debts that exceed their postgraduate income.

As the dean of the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at the City University of New York, I can tell you that half measures won’t solve this quandary. My school was founded in 2006 as a public alternative to elite journalism schools in the city and it remains one of the most affordable in the nation.

Our in-state students pay about a quarter of the cost of an equivalent degree from top-tier schools with which we successfully compete. This year alone, 90 percent of our students are on scholarships, and a record 25 percent are attending tuition-free. We also waived the $75 application fee this admission cycle and saw an increase of more than 40 percent in our applicant pool.

Thanks to these policies, we have succeeded where the media industry keeps failing. Over 50 percent of our students are people of color and from underserved communities. Many couldn’t have attended our school if we hadn’t offered significant scholarship support. But that’s not enough. Though we rank as one of the journalism schools with higher-medium-income and lower-median-debt alumni, our students still don’t graduate fully debt-free.

This is why this year, we began a campaign to go fully tuition-free by 2027. While other schools might face different financial challenges, we hope that many more will follow us.

We need journalists whose only obligations are to the facts and the society they serve, not to lenders; who are concerned with the public interest, not with interest rates; who can make risky decisions and take the difficult path if that’s what the mission requires, free of financial burden. Journalism schools can help achieve that. In tough times, it is natural to mourn the past or lament the present, but what we really need is bold action.

Graciela Mochkofsky is the dean at CUNY’s Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism. She is the author, most recently, of “ The Prophet of the Andes: An Unlikely Journey to the Promised Land .”

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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2024 Essay and Poetry Prizes

2024 Essay and Poetry Prizes Banner

The English department wishes to recognize the creativity of its undergraduate students and continue to foster the talent of our poets and essayists. You are invited to apply to the following prizes. 

The Howard Babb Memorial Essay Prize is open to all Humanities Undergraduate Students. The best essay or research paper will be awarded $500. The essay or research paper has no minimum of maximum length, but should have some bearing on the topic of literature.  The Brett Baldwin Prize in Poetry   is open to all Humanities Undergraduate Students. Students may submit a total of 3 poems not to exceed a total of 10 pages. One winner will receive $500.  The James McMichael Prize for Excellence in Poetry  requires completion of one course from Writing 30 or Writing 90 by the end of Winter 2024 in order to apply.  Students may submit a total of 3 poems not to exceed a total of 10 pages. First place will win $2000.  The Undergraduate Award for Excellence in Poetry  also requires completion of one course from Writing 30 or  Writing 90 by the end of Winter 2024 in order to apply.  Students may submit a total of 3 poems not to exceed a total of 10 pages.  First place will win $3000. 

For additional submission information, please click on the submission links of the desired prize. The names of the prizes are the submission links.  The deadline for submission for all awards will be FRIDAY, APRIL 5, 2024.  May the odds be ever in your favor!

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    5. Set up a battery-recycling program. Put boxes or bins in a designated spot and email monthly reminders to students and teachers. Put a student in charge of collecting the batteries each week and bringing them to you, and then take them to an appropriate recycling facility once a month or whenever the box gets full.

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    Essay on Recycling 200 Words. It all goes back to the history of recycling. Starting in 1900, people recycled pots, pans, and other metals by melting them down. But as more plastic products were made, Recycling got confusing and codes were created. Thus, recycling codes are important so you know what to recycle.

  19. Recycling In High Schools

    Placing items such as glass, plastics, aluminum, and paper on their curb or dropping them off at recycling centers takes part of their weekly routine. However, many lack knowledge as to what happens to their products after this step. Intricate, but crucial, recycling helps improve our environment. 565 Words.

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    NPR correspondent Michael Copley joins Ali Rogin to discuss a new report on the plastic industry's tactics to push recycling and avoid regulation. ... One teacher's take on harnessing AI in schools.

  21. Reducing Waste at Schools

    Audience: Facility managers, custodians, cafeteria managers, and school green teams. Students, parents, and teachers can all make a difference in reducing waste at school. By practicing the "3 R's" of waste reduction—reduce, reuse, and recycle—we can all do our part. Tips for students and schools regarding green supplies and in the cafeteria.

  22. PDF Starting a School Recycling Program

    It is essential to understand your school's existing waste operations and the quantity and type of waste your school generates in order to implement a recycling program. The custodial/facilities manager and members of their staff can provide key information of how waste moves through your school, and what materials make up that waste.

  23. How the plastics industry is molding young minds in the classroom

    Recycling has been a grossly inadequate fix: Only 9 percent of plastics is successfully recycled, and 40 percent of material collected in recycling bins ends up in the trash, according to the ...

  24. Paragraph on Recycling

    Students are often asked to write a paragraph on Recycling in their schools. And if you're also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 200-word, and 250-word paragraphs on the topic. Let's take a look… Paragraph on Recycling in 100 Words. Recycling means taking old things like paper, cans, and bottles and making them into new things.

  25. Reuse or Recycle: How to Manage College Essay Material

    Streamline this process by creating a structure for your essays that allows you to predictably manage your school-specific content. For example, connect with each school ' s unique traditions, programs, campus culture, surrounding neighborhoods, etc. You could potentially save precious time and mental energy by applying a consistent structure ...

  26. Recycling in action at North Coast schools

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  27. State should expand early college/dual enrollment programs ...

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  28. One Way to Help a Journalism Industry in Crisis: Make J-School Free

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  29. 2024 Essay and Poetry Prizes

    The Howard Babb Memorial Essay Prize is open to all Humanities Undergraduate Students. The best essay or research paper will be awarded $500. The essay or research paper has no minimum of maximum length, but should have some bearing on the topic of literature. The Brett Baldwin Prize in Poetry is open to all Humanities Undergraduate Students ...