Did you know that APS doesn’t actually reprocess trash from the recycling bins? APS, a school district that prides itself on sustainability and eco-friendly policies, has overlooked one of the most obvious methods of reducing pollution: recycling. APS installs both trash and recycling bins in every school, yet throws the contents of both into landfill. However, the H-B Green Club is attempting to get the school board to agree to actually recycle.
To learn more about this concern, I participated in one of the Green Club meetings during lunch. The leader of Green Club, Emmie McDonald, opened the meeting with a proposal to contact the school board regarding the recycling issue via email, which will hopefully bring the matter to attention. Aside from going to the school board to make a difference, the Green Club is planning to host events throughout the year that will educate students on sustainability and raise awareness about the recycling issue as well as other related matters. Currently, the Green Club is planning to host a fall-themed fundraising event at H-B, selling trail mix to students and faculty in order to donate money to eco-friendly causes.
While APS may seem like a tiny fraction of society, we have the ability to make an impact on the world. As you read this article, our oceans are being filled with millions of tons of plastic, and our landfills are emitting gases that contribute to climate change. Green Club has resolved to make our small corner of the world more sustainable, and club member Charlie Levine encourages H-B students to “join Green Club and help us advocate for a more eco-friendly APS.” Small things that H-B students can do to leave less of a carbon footprint include turning off lights when not in use, opting for public transportation rather than driving, and reducing food waste by composting.
Everyone has the ability to make a difference, whether it be changing APS policy or simply recycling a plastic bottle. It’s important to remember that we only have one Earth, and that we must all do our part to make sure our environment is healthy and sustainable. If you’re interested in making H-B a more eco-friendly place, be sure to drop by Green Club, which meets every other Monday in Kathryn’s room!
