Reduce and Reuse in Schools

​Waste reduction can help lower your trash disposal costs and save money by not purchasing unneeded items.

Ways to reduce waste in schools

• Switch to reusable trays, cups and serviceware
• Require printing on both sides
• Buy used supplies and furniture

Resources

• Waste reduction resources for healthy school environments
• School waste reduction

Surplus supplies and furniture

Donate or sell items in usable and working condition. Conisder purchasing used items.

Public schools

Under Minnesota law, public schools are only allowed to donate to other public entities such as other public schools, a city or a county. Amend your school district policy to ensure all items are first offered to other schools, posted on the Public Surplus website and, as a last option, recycled or thrown away.

Private schools

Post items on the Minnesota Materials Exchange or contact one of these programs:

• Twin Cities Business Recycling Directory
• Furnish
• Habitat for Humanity ReStore
• ​360 Communities School Supply Needs

Get free help

Schools can receive funding to help start or improve waste prevention practices through the school waste prevention and recycling grant.