[中文版本]
A few months ago, my team and I joined the "Be a Zero Hero" initiative and started a dedicated plastic film recycling bin at Herbert Hoover Middle School. Unlike regular recycling bins, this bin is specifically for collecting plastic bags and other types of plastic film products that are not commonly recycled. Our goal is to reduce the amount of plastic bag waste on campus while encouraging more people to develop good recycling habits.
From an Email to Campus Environmental Action
The launch of this project began with an email I sent to the school principal, Dr. Kim. With her support, I met with Mr. Ostry, who then helped coordinate a presentation of the project at the Student Government Association (SGA) meeting. Eventually, we successfully set up the recycling bin on campus. Montgomery County has a well-established recycling system that handles most everyday recyclables, but plastic bags and plastic films are not included. With our recycling program, these plastic bags and other plastic films can be recycled and repurposed into outdoor furniture, such as park benches. In fact, our "Be a Zero Hero" student club recently donated a bench made from recycled plastic to Richard Montgomery High School. This bench was a reward for our contribution of over 2,000 pounds of plastic bags and films collected over the past two years.
Teamwork Helps Bring the Project to Life
The success of this project wouldn't have been possible without the help of many people. I would like to especially thank Dr. Kim, whose strong support helped us set up the recycling bin on campus. Additionally, Kenneth Shue, the founder of the "Be a Zero Hero" program, provided immense support from the planning stage to the final implementation. He was always there to guide and assist us. I would also like to thank Mr. Ostry for helping us promote the project school-wide and coordinating with the Student Government Association. Finally, I want to thank my team members—Melody Zhou and Julia Zhu—because it was everyone's collective effort that made this all possible.
Small Actions, Big Changes—A Call to Reduce Plastic Waste
I hope every reader will do their part to reduce unnecessary plastic waste. Whether at home, in your workplace, or at school, you can collect recyclable plastic bags and films and take them to designated recycling bins at local stores instead of throwing them away. Montgomery County students, if your school already has a "Be a Zero Hero" recycling program, please actively participate by placing eligible plastic films in the recycling bins. If not, you can be a promoter of the "Be a Zero Hero" program. Contact us for guidance and assistance on setting up a plastic film recycling bin.
This initiative not only effectively reduces plastic waste, but also aims to raise more awareness about environmental protection, so that we can all work together to create a better world!
