Sustainable School Year

It’s school season again! While we all have fond memories of getting brand new backpacks and pencil cases and clothes, we often forget that school season tends to be a time of high consumption and waste for most families. New materials replace old ones, half-eaten school lunches end up in the trash, rides to and from class rack up greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs). Read on to learn more about Columbia’s waste reduction goals and how you can do your part this season by making your school year more sustainable!

Waste emissions represent 2% of all GHG emissions in Columbia. The City has established a 45% reduction target for the year 2035 and an 80% reduction target for the year 2050. With the majority of what is sent to our landfill consisting of compostable (remember those school lunches) and recyclable materials (think papers, single-use plastics, etc.), there is a great opportunity for Columbia to meet its GHG reduction and waste diversion goals.

1. Reduce Unnecessary Purchases
   1. Create a family budget to prioritize essential items.
   2. Encourage a "wait-and-see" approach before making purchases, especially if they are not immediately necessary.
   3. Discuss the environmental impact of the products you’re purchasing. Use public databases like the CPID to compare your options.
2. Buy or Donate Secondhand
   1. Visit local thrift stores for affordable, gently used items.
   2. Organize clothing swaps with friends and neighbors.
   3. Promote online marketplaces for buying and selling secondhand goods.
3. Switch to Greener School and Craft Materials
   1. Opt for non-toxic, biodegradable supplies whenever possible.
   2. Encourage the use of recycled paper and reusable containers.
   3. Support brands that prioritize sustainability in their products.
4. Promote Sustainable Transportation
   1. Organize walking or biking groups for students commuting to school.
   2. Set up a carpool schedule to reduce single-vehicle trips.
   3. Advocate for local bus services to increase accessibility for families.
5. Utilize the City’s Recycling Program
   1. Educate families on what materials are recyclable in Columbia.
   2. Provide tips on properly sorting recyclables to minimize contamination.
   3. Encourage participation in community recycling events and initiatives.

It is Columbia’s goal to support you and your family in reducing waste and consuming smarter. Utilize the City’s resources to get informed on all that you can do to support CoMo’s waste reduction goals and make a local impact:

• Learn what can and cannot be recycled curbside with the City’s guidelines PDF
• Download the COMO Recycle and Trash app
• Are you a teacher? Utilize the EPA’s resources for k12 environmental education
• Learn how to compost leftover lunches (and all your other food waste!) at home