What really happens when we throw things ‘away’? Is there even such a place? That’s what Grade 4 and 5 students from Jaffray elementary school discovered recently, as they scrutinized the contents of the Cranbrook landfill and explored recycling on a deeper level on a tour with the RDEK.
The students are taking part in Beyond Recycling, a Wildsight education program that tackles topics such as waste, ecological footprint, climate change and energy use—and how to lessen their impacts.
“This is not your ordinary field trip,” said Dawn Deydey, on behalf of Wildsight, the non-profit organization that created and delivers Beyond Recycling.
“There’s nothing inherently ‘fun’ about garbage—but the kids get to be detectives for a day, to solve the mystery of what happens to our waste once we throw it in the trash.”
Jaffray is one of 10 schools in the Columbia Basin Region that have taken part in Wildsight’s Beyond Recycling this year. Beyond Recycling aims to inspire students to consider the impact of their actions and to make positive environmental changes. The weekly lessons use slideshows, costumes, movies, and games to make the learning about these serious topics fun. The curriculum is recognized by the B.C. Ministry of Education as contributing to science learning outcomes, and so far teachers, parents and kids are giving it great marks.
“The kids were really surprised at the huge process that is necessary to deal with our waste,” Deydey said. “They’ve been exploring environmental issues all year and this trip is an eye-opener.” She noted that while recycling is an important strategy, it’s just one of many Rs. “We’re trying to help equip the students with what they need to contribute to a sustainable future. And that goes way beyond recycling.”
Program sponsors include NSERC, RDCK, Fortis BC, BC Hydro, and CBT with support from teachers, administrators and parents from schools throughout the region.