The county is open for business and here to serve our community. More information
School Recycling
Contact us
Sorting table for organics, recycling and trash in school cafeteria
According to a 2010 School Waste study by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), over 78% of waste material generated by schools is recyclable or compostable. Ramsey County can assist schools in their recycling and waste reduction efforts.
Minnesota Statute 115A.151 requires Minnesota schools to have recycling programs. Recycling programs can teach students to be good stewards of the environment and encourage positive waste management behaviors. Schools can inspire and help cultivate a habit of recycling for children. A school’s recycling program can teach students to think about the larger implications of waste and how their efforts in recycling will help in pursuing a more sustainable future.
Additionally, installing recycling infrastructure and following waste management best practices will reduce schools’ disposal costs and taxes associated with waste disposal.
School recycling assistance
Ramsey County has free container labels, free technical assistance and grant funding to help schools start or improve their recycling programs. Grant funds can be used to purchase bins, carts, sort tables and sorting stations, reusable service ware and educational materials. This is not an exhaustive list, and other tangible resources maybe requested. Eligibility will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Container labels
Schools and businesses in Ramsey and Washington counties may order recycling and trash container labels for free.
Technical assistance
Ramsey County offers free technical assistance to help schools start or improve their recycling programs.
For technical assistance, please contact Gabriel Reynolds.
School waste reduction and recycling grant program
The purpose of the School Waste Reduction and Recycling Grant program is to provide technical assistance and resources to all Ramsey County public K-12 school districts, and charter schools with student enrollment of 250 and larger, for creating, implementing and improving programs to increase waste reduction and recycling efforts. The technical assistance, grants, equipment and supplies provided will be linked to implementation of best practices along the School Waste Reduction and Recycling Best Practices Continuum.
Grant materials
- Grant overview and guidelines (PDF)
- Grant application (DOC)
- School Waste Reduction and Recycling Best Practices Continuum (PDF) is used to assist schools in their waste management goals.
If your school qualifies and is interested in applying for a grant, please contact Gabriel Reynolds to discuss project ideas.