Why include recycling?

Why include recycling in your school policy?

Formalising your school’s recycling commitment as part of a school policy is really important.

Recycling is an important part of our school ethos and our recycling policy helped to get everyone committed to the environment long-term. We want to ensure we keep up the good work, even if dedicated staff move on.

Richard Jones, head teacher,
Hagbourne C.E. Primary

A recycling policy is important because:

  • The policy is a written commitment by the signatories (typically head teacher, or members of the school management team), which means it is more likely to be adhered to.
  • It ensures that recycling is carried on beyond the current generation of school management, staff and students.
  • The policy can provide guidance on objectives, actions and measures for success, with a commitment to review and improve the recycling system on a regular basis.
  • Recycling becomes an integral part of the school’s ethos and identity.
  • It shows that the school is taking a responsible role as part of its community.
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Top tips

  1. Have a recycling point in every room

    Don’t forget non-teaching areas like the office, staff room and kitchen

  2. Put rubbish bins and recycling points together

    This makes it as easy to recycle as it is to throw something away

  3. Keep people informed

    Make sure everyone knows what can be recycled at school and why it is important to recycle

  4. Label recycling points and waste bins clearly

    This will help avoid the wrong things being put in the wrong bin

  5. Set up a rota

    Set up a rota for emptying the recycling point

  6. Monitor your recycling scheme

    Watch out for any decline in recycling levels. For example, you could keep a record of how full your external recycling bin is each week.

  7. Have regular recycling reports

    Report at assemblies and display amounts of recycling collected on a notice board to keep everyone informed and motivated.

  8. Motivate teachers to lead by example

    Recycle as much as possible and encourage pupils to get involved.

  9. Involve cleaning and support staff

    Ensure cleaning and support staff are informed of changes which affect them and let them know how important their role is.

  10. Spread your success

    Tell other people about successes, especially parents and the local press and praise all the teams involved