Waste Reduction
The UGDSB is committed to supporting schools in minimizing their waste. Waste causes pollution, uses up our natural resources and contributes to climate change. Small changes in our everyday lives can have a positive impact to the health of all living things and the planet we call home. We can all make a difference!
UGDSB Initiatives:
Schools are required to undertake an annual waste audit and set goals in a waste minimization action plan. A helpful, online data collection and analysis waste audit website is available to support reporting and track a school’s progress.
Schools are encouraged to properly sort all types of waste. All classroom have access to paper and container recycling bins and proper recycling of all materials is supported with the following posters:
Schools are encouraged to participate in an organics recycling program and can access the following support guides: Schools are encouraged to use reusable water bottles or travel mugs to decrease their use of single-use water bottles or non-recyclable paper coffee cups. A water bottle refilling station has been installed in every UGDSB school.
Schools are encouraged to participate in the board’s Less Paper Campaign and set their own target to reduce paper consumption. Best practices include using technology to reduce the need for printing, making meetings as paperless as possible, using GOOS paper (paper that is still good on one side), printing double-sided, using paperless record keeping, and using electronic communication methods. Resources are available on UGshare to support this goal.
Waste reduction initiatives through other organizations: Schools are required to follow board policy regarding the disposal of hazardous waste and batteries, removal of surplus materials including recycling of AV and IT equipment, lamps and bulbs, and toner and ink cartridge recycling.