Funded by the DfE, Climate Ambassadors match volunteer climate experts with education settings.
Part of Let’s Go Zero, Climate Action Advisors are independent experts who offer free support for schools, colleges, and nurseries across England.
About
Introducing recycling and composting bins gives learners and staff what they need to separate waste materials correctly.
Recycling bins can be used for paper, card, plastics and cans, while composting bins are designed for food scraps and other organic materials.
You must always separate:
- dry recyclable materials (plastic, metal, glass, paper and card)
- food waste
- non-recyclable waste (also called residual waste)
Speak with your waste contractor to see if they collect other recycling streams, such as CDs, coffee cups, metal, batteries and vapes, pens and glue sticks.
You may find other organisations that pick up clothing, shoes and other household items, promoting reuse as well as recycling.
Completing a waste audit will help clarify which recycling and composting bins to introduce.
Why
Providing recycling and composting facilities can significantly reduce the amount of waste sent for disposal. It also encourages sustainable habits. Clear waste separation improves recycling quality, reduces contamination and helps recover valuable resources. It also provides practical learning opportunities for children and young people, helping them understand concepts like resource conservation, circular economies and environmental responsibility.
How
- Look for places where waste is commonly generated and place appropriately-sized bins in accessible areas. Use clear labels and visual guidance to help users understand what belongs in each bin.
- For less-common waste streams (batteries, metal, glue, etc), place recycling bins in more commonly used areas, such as reception areas or libraries.
- Monitor contamination levels, gather feedback and make adjustments where necessary.
- Promote through assemblies, displays or campaigns to maximise participation.
- Trying out a recycling campaign can help you work out where it’s best to place recycling and composting bins.
- Communicating and agreeing on these locations with the senior leadership team (SLT) and site and estates team will be key to the bins’ success.
Resources
Read more about how we find resources. The resources shown match the filters you apply - adjust your filters to see more resources.