Impact Statement: Recycling Program Enhancement

The Pendleton County Extension Office offered an enhanced recycling program educational effort and drive aimed to encourage more frequent recycling of new items and promote additional sustainable practices within the community.

Quantitative results in a follow evaluation and through observation led to our recycling bin having to double it’s service to empty.  99 % of participants have recycling new items.  25 % just started to participate in recycling. And 90% stated since our recycling educational drive their recycling efforts have more than doubled

Qualitative results shared with us by participants stated they were unaware before our drive of items to recycling.   Many stated using the new hefty program for the first time allowing them to recycle hard to recycle plastics and Styrofoam.  

Environmental impact from our efforts is aiding in reducing our carbon footprint.  Participants also stated that through our educational drive they adopted other sustainable practices such as composting, time of day they cut grass, turning off lights and replacing light bulbs with LED bulbs and using reusable grocery bags.

Significance: The improved recycling practices not only contributed to a cleaner environment but also fostered a culture of sustainability within the community. The reduction in landfill waste helps conserve natural resources and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, supporting broader environmental goals.

The recycling program has enhanced environmental stewardship, reduced the community’s carbon footprint, and promoted responsible consumption. These benefits contribute to long-term sustainability and improved quality of life for residents.

One of many programs offered on Recycling results included:

Over 150 participants attended a comprehensive Sustainability Lesson designed as a train-the-trainer session, covering key topics such as solar energy, recycling, and carbon monoxide safety. As a result, 80% of attendees reported recycling more frequently and including new items they previously did not know were recyclable. Additionally, 40% of participants explored solar energy options for their homes, and 45% took action to install a carbon monoxide detector, demonstrating the program's tangible impact on promoting sustainable practices and home safety within the community.