In March 2018, the Maple Ridge – Pitt Meadows School District implemented a new program that simplifies waste collection, diverts more of our waste from the landfill, and reduces the environmental footprint of our schools. The program was developed through a consultation process that included input from teachers, custodians, other district staff, union representatives, the district’s Environmental Sustainability Committee, the City of Maple Ridge, as well as local waste vendors and local recycling groups.
The new program aligns with board policy 6530 Environmental Sustainability and supports the district’s objective to act as a responsible steward within our community, cultivate a culture of care, and seek to develop the leadership and citizenship capacity of all learners.
Under the new Waste Collection program, waste is separated into three streams – organics, recycling, and garbage. This separation process is the responsibility of every user of school district facilities, including students, teachers, management, staff, parents, building visitors and facility renters.
The school district will monitor and review the program on an ongoing basis to determine where additional improvements can be made.
WASTE COLLECTION PROGRAM
Under the new Waste Collection program, waste is separated into three streams – organics, recycling, and garbage.
ORGANICS – GREEN |
All food scraps and soiled/wet paper are accepted (including paper towel and tissues). No cups, packaging or plastic are allowed. Organics are collected in green bins with lids that latch. The bins are lined with compostable bags. Custodians remove the liners every day directly to a lockable, bear-proof outdoor bin. |
RECYCLING – BLUE |
All paper, cardboard, plastic, containers, lids, metal, unbroken glass, tetra packs, juice boxes, cans and bottles are accepted. Recycling is collected in blue bins without lids. The bins are lined with recycled, light-grey bags and custodians remove the liners two times a week directly to a lockable, bear-proof outdoor bin. Refundables are collected in the recycling bins. However, if a school or classroom wants to separate refundables and return them for a refund, they are responsible for the separation of the items, and for emptying and cleaning the refundables bins. |
GARBAGE – BLACK |
Any items that are neither organic nor recyclable are considered garbage. Garbage is collected in small bins previously provided. The bin is kept under the desk or out of sight in order to encourage proper sorting. The bins are lined with black liners. Custodians remove the liners two times a week directly to a lockable, bear-proof outdoor bin. |
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Want to help? Pack sandwiches, fresh fruit, fresh veggies and treats in resuable containers instead of disposable plastic bags. Similarly, where possible, provide your child with reusable drink containers instead of disposable juice boxes and plastic water bottles.