Our goal is zero waste by 2012

Sustainable schools use resources no faster than resources can be renewed. Sustainable schools generate wastes no faster than wastes can be absorbed into the ecosystem.

To become a sustainable school, Catlin Gabel School uses less and recycles, composts on site, and purchases with end-of-use in mind to produce zero waste by 2012. Our  zero waste initiative launched in 2007-08.

• 2007-08:  Focus on recycling. Remove recyclable materials from the landfill waste stream.
• 2008-09:  Focus on composting. Remove food from the landfill waste stream.
• 2009-10:  Focus on purchasing with end-of-use in mind. Landfill is down 11.48% from 2008-09.
• 2010-11:  Use less.
• 2011-12:  Refine steps one through four.

Resources:

• The Case for Zero Waste
• Sustainable Oregon Schools Initiative

Status & Goals