The Commons used to have recycling bins for water bottles before they were removed, Principal Dr. Tracey Wackerle said.

“We have had issues with recycling processes in the past of students using them as trash replicates,” Dr. Wackerle said. “We had to kind of filter through it and pull the trash out because the recycling companies won’t take it.” 

The new recycling bins will feature an infographic showing what can and cannot be recycled. Cans, bottles, and milk cartons are accepted in these new recycling bins.

Senior Harini Annadorai, the vice president of S.A.F.E., noticed that with no recycling bins, everything must be thrown away. 

She and other S.A.F.E members decided that putting recycling cans in the lunchroom might make things easier for people to recycle. The ability to recycle could also decrease waste in general.

“I’m hoping that everyone will realize that recycling is an option. People can start thinking about their waste and what they can recycle,” Annadorai said. 

These bins were donated by other teachers, and the bags are from the custodial team. Collection and sorting will be done by S.A.F.E members after lunch. 

Annadorai said recycling is the first step in helping the environment. 

“We’re not just recycling. We are keeping the planet healthier and safer,” Annadorai said. 

Susan Hartley, sponsor of the S.A.F.E. club, said there is an overall need to bring awareness to “trying to save the planet”.

“The goal is just to do things to better the environment at our school and try to make a difference,” Hartley said.