For Educators
In the late 1980s, lack of landfill space was a grave concern in Indiana. It was estimated that Indiana had seven years of landfill capacity remaining.
Today, approximately 50 more years of landfill capacity remains at the landfill in Fort Wayne. This is in large part to public education about recycling, as well as advancements in landfill technology, construction, and regulation. Having averted the possible landfill crisis to an extent, the motivation and message of recycling education has shifted from conserving landfill space to conserving natural resources and energy, as well as pollution reduction.
Our educational programs correspond with the Indiana Academic Standards for science, grades K through 5, making it easy for teachers to implement our programs into their lessons. Check out our resources for students and teachers to develop a zero-waste mindset and culture in your classroom and school.
Looking to incorporate environmental education into your classroom?
- Lessons and activities for educators by grade level
- Virtual tour of a recycling facility
- How to implement food rescue in your school
- Downloadable game highlighting the difference between garbage, recyclables, and compostables
- Challenge your classroom to become "Food Waste Heroes!"
- Reduce Food Waste at School
- Kindergarten through 12 Food Waste Warrior Curriculum Toolkit
- Environmental Research and Education Foundation