Recycling education program spreads the word at local schools
Fort Wayne, Ind. – Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry today joined the City's Solid Waste Department for a special program at Irwin Elementary School.
Students participated in a fun, interactive and educational assembly about the City's One Cart Recycling Program. The purpose of the assembly was to educate students about what can and cannot be included in the City's recycling carts.
"We hope that the students will share what they have learned with their families," Mayor Henry said. "Education is a key component to the success of recycling programs."
Today, Nov. 21, marked the 50th school visit by the City of Fort Wayne and the Dumpster Drummers -- Brandon Ford, Larry Ford and Doug Laughlin -- as a way to highlight the City's "Be Smart...Use Your Cart" Program. The program has been presented to more than 15,000 students in Fort Wayne Community Schools. Music and humor are used to keep students engaged while teaching them the importance of recycling.
The City launched its One Cart Recycling Program in 2011. The program has been very popular with a 42% rise in participation by residents. Currently, 75% of residents are recycling with the one cart program.
Earlier this year, the City was named the winner of the 2012 Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence in Indiana. The award honors programs in communities that have made extraordinary efforts to protect and benefit Indiana residents and the environment.