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Project Success Stories
In August 2002, students from NWF's Alaska Youth for Environmental Action
(AYEA) program chose recycling as their statewide topic. Since then, much
has been accomplished across Alaska in an effort to improve recycling in
the state.
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Students formed a statewide recycling committee that organized a recycling
summit for high school students. The goal of the three-day event was to
provide students with the tools necessary to develop recycling programs
in their communities.
In addition to planning the summit, the recycling committee drafted and
published a recycling booklet. Alaska Youth Reach Out and Recycle!
includes educational activities that can be used by youth or adults, as
well as information about how recycling works, why it's important, and
how to start a recycling program.
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In February 2003, 40 students from 13 different communities across the
state came together to participate in AYEA's recycling summit. AYEA student
trainers led the group in activities, discussions, and brainstorming sessions.
Guest speakers talked about the
economics of recycling and waste issues in rural Alaska. At the culmination
of the three days, students created action plans to carry out what they
had learned. They've been working hard ever since!
Jesyca Shores, an AYEA student trainer from Galena, highlights recent
accomplishments in her community.
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"With the help of Louden Tribal council we've been able to purchase
recycling bins for aluminum cans to distribute all over the community. With
the help of our local radio station, KIYU, we've been able to get the word
out on the availability and importance of recycling." |
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Anchorage high schools have also been making progress in recycling. Fiona
Worcester, summit participant and founder of West High School's Environment
and Ecology Club, said the club collects newspapers weekly and has increased
membership and participation.
Stephanie Wayt and other members of Green Club, the recycling club at
Service High School in Anchorage, have presented to elementary students about the importance
of recycling. Next year Stephanie hopes to expand her activities and give
presentations to classes within her high school.
Elsewhere in Anchorage, students have been working to consolidate school
recycling efforts. Student representatives are currently proposing a district-wide
"task force" to mandate recycling policy and set up sustainable programs
in every school.
This piece was contributed by Megan McBride, high school student from Anchorage, Alaska, and member of National Wildlife Federation's AYEA program.
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