There’s been a lot of coverage in the news lately about the danger our wonderful planet is in, and what we can all do to help. Go Green week (February) is the perfect time to take stock and consider how your PTA can do more to reduce, reuse and recycle.
Our recent poll showed that a lot of PTAs are already involved with some sort of green initiative, however, some have yet to put a “Go Green” plan into action. So here are some easy ways to cut down on your PTA waste and start doing your bit to save the planet!
General recycling
Recycling paper, plastic and glass at home is probably second nature by now, right? But if you’re still chucking those drink cans and event tickets in the bin after your disco or quiz night, now’s the time to change! Make sure you put out clearly labelled bins for general waste and recycling at each PTA event.
Add pictures of what goes where so that even the smallest tot can do their bit to Go Green. Look for greener alternatives for plastic straws, knives and forks and disposable cups. And how about appointing a “Head of Green Initiatives” that can be responsible for overseeing the committee’s approach to recycling?
Still printing out paper tickets and volunteer sign up sheets for events? Why not do it all online! Not only will you save on paper- you’ll cut down on a shedload of admin hassle too, AND gas-guzzling trips to the bank!
Recycling schemes
These are very popular and easy fundraisers for PTAs, because you can recycle and make extra cash at the same time. There are many different schemes to choose from - clothes, shoes and textiles, CDs and DVDs, ink cartridges, mobile phones and more.
Just Google “recycling in schools” and you’ll find a wealth of companies who specialise in this area. If your school has an Eco Council, they may like to help you decide which green schemes to join. Have them help you design promotional posters and leaflets to promote your initiatives to the school community.
Ideas for Going Green!
Some schools have come up with very imaginative ways to do reduce, reuse and recycle. Here are a few that we love!
Encourage parents and children to join in your green initiatives by holding a fun event like a “Trash Fashion” disco (kids can come dressed in outfits made of recycled stuff!).
Alternatively hold a Swishing event (donate your unwanted clothes and buy other people’s) where you can promote your chosen recycling schemes with colourful posters, or have stalls for donations of old ink cartridges etc.
Llanharan PTA took part in a Christmas card recycling competition organised by their local council:
Still on a Christmas theme, this school pledged to reuse Christmas wrapping, ribbon and boxes:
Friends of Charter School set up a JustGiving page to raise money for LED lightbulbs throughout the school:
Milk cartons can be used to make a very effective play igloo!
This greenhouse made from plastic bottles has a real wow effect! And you could even use it to grow fruit and vegetables to sell or use for fundraising events:
And how gorgeous are these Wellington boot planters! Could be an ideal Mothers Day fundraiser...
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PlanSocial curates resources and educational materials for school parents and their families, focusing on everything from educational support for your children, self-development and career re-entry, to home improvement, family well-being and even where to find the best family holidays.
