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2013 Autumn | Education & Outreach, Sustainability

The Road to ‘Zero Waste’

Student(s):

Elizabeth Szorad

Program or Department(s):

  • Program on the Environment
  • University of Washington

Site supervisor(s):

Signe Gilson, Eberly Wedlake

Partner(s):

  • CleanScapes

Faculty advisor(s):

Dennis Ryan, Urban Design & Planning, University of Washington

During my internship with CleanScapes, I worked with the Waste Diversion department to enhance outreach and education. I was able to assist in community events ranging from farmers’ markets to kids’ camps. I also helped in educating multifamily apartments about recycling and composting—handing out free recycling bins and educational flyers. I also wrote weekly waste tips that were published online for customers and I called 1000+ customers to ask if any educational assistance was needed. It is important to discern what challenges are present when educating a community and what can be done to remedy those issues to better promote environmental stewardship.