Think Green at School
Learn how to create a more sustainable lifestyle.
Schools are leading the way in environmental initiatives and fostering a new generation of environmental leaders in our communities. Starting with reduce, reuse, and recycle, we want the next generation to Think Green.
Recycle @ School
60% of our garbage is generated at work and school.
MMSB provides French and English educational resources to help students and staff to properly sort recyclables including bilingual bin stickers, classroom posters, bin signs, and instructional videos.
Get Matched! School Recycling Program
MMSB matches the recycling refunds at Green Depots for used beverage containers collected in K-12 public and private schools in Newfoundland and Labrador during the school year.
Tips for Sustainable Schools
We know how important it is to reduce, reuse, and recycle at home, but we can also take our daily green routine to school.
Keep in mind the order of the 3Rs: Reduce, Reuse, and THEN Recycle. We all have control over the choices we make. Remember: if we are part of the problem, we can be part of the solution!
- Use reusable intra-office envelopes.
- Pre-print envelopes, or use return address stamps.
- Purchase supplies in bulk, and choose items with less packaging.
- Avoid purchasing supplies that do not last or cannot be repaired.
- Email notices home to parents, or post updates on your website.
- Post staff memos in a centralized area, or email memos to staff.
- Collect coffee grounds, filters, and other organic food waste for composting.
- Share resources with other teachers instead of making multiple copies.
- Donate unwanted computer equipment to a local charity.
- Plan a school-wide rummage sale or swap.
- Organize a school-wide composting program.
- Make art and technology projects out of reused material.
- Promote the 3Rs in school with a creative mural.
- Conduct a waste audit to find out how much waste you generate.
- Have a “green day” at school – everyone wears (and thinks) green.
- Start an environmental group at school.
- Print tests and assignments double-sided.
- Set the copier defaults to print double-sided.
- Post directions on how to load special paper.
- Collect and reuse office paper that is blank on one side.
- Encourage your school to purchase recycled paper.
- Encourage your school to buy reusable toner cartridges.
- Set aside and reuse office supplies such as file folders or binders.
- Edit documents on screen, and only print your final draft.
- Use joint-editing software if you are working in a group.
- Always use the print preview before printing.
- Print documents double-sided.
- Print in colour only when necessary.
- Collect and reuse printer paper that is still blank on one side.
- Recycle used ink cartridges where possible.
- Encourage cafeteria staff to use reusable dishes and cutlery.
- Encourage students to pack a waste-free lunch.
- Have a school-wide waste-free lunch day once a month.
- Place a beverage container recycling bin in your cafeteria.
- Use both sides of the paper.
- Collect scrap paper in your classroom for notes and art projects.
- Try not to waste school supplies – use only what you need.
- Collect recyclables in your classroom.
- Start a class vermicompost bin.
- Encourage parents to purchase durable school supplies.
- Make arts and crafts projects out of recycled material.
- Celebrate the holidays by decorating with reused items.
School Champion: Upper Gullies Elementary
Students Caleb and Gabe Dawe, with support from Reading Specialist Colleen Powers, launched Upper Gullies Elementary Earth Club with one goal in mind: to promote environmental literacy in their school.
Watch the video to see how Upper Gullies Elementary Thinks Green at school.
Download Recycling Signs
We are excited to provide free downloadable signs for use at your office, school, or business.