by Joseph Alonso
Five hundred. That is the number of years it takes plastic to decompose in our landfills, per the United Nations.
Plastic waste has become a problem, not only around the world but in our backyard.
Here at Christopher Columbus High School, hundreds of plastic water bottles and cans are thrown out every day.
However, a green enlightenment has made its way to Columbus. Through science teacher Ms. Taylor and the Environmental Club, action is being taken here at Columbus to minimize plastic waste and work towards a better future for our environment.
"Students are very reluctant to recycle," says Ms. Taylor.
Recycling plays a big part in protecting our earth, and this new project extends this opportunity to the community at Columbus.
"Geared for GREEN is a local company... that takes the plastic bottles or cans... and sends them to facilities to break them apart and manufacture [different things]." she says.
As an organization, Geared for GREEN works with some of the largest corporations in the nation such as Publix, Walmart and even the PGA Tour. Columbus is the first school to partner with the company, which strives to promote a greener future here in our very school.
According to their website, "Our mission is to revolutionize the way businesses and organizations perceive waste, transforming it from a challenge into a valuable resource."
Through this mission, the Columbus community can turn plastic waste into gains, not only for our environment but for our livelihoods,
The possibilities for what can be created from our waste are endless, From shirts to ties and backpacks, plastic waste that is turned into plastic wool can become the future for apparel here at school.
"Eventually, I'd like to have all of the shirts and polos... and ties... to be made from our plastic waste." says Ms. Taylor.
So long as students and teachers are engaged in this activity, the school can transform our waste into gains and improve the environment of our school for generations to come.
"[Approximately 40] recycling bins will be placed all around the school on April 22nd," Ms Taylor furthers.
This program gives students across the school to participate and contribute to the betterment of our campus. It's not only about the campus, though, it's about the environment and landfills that harm our precious Everglades and waterways.
"This initiative is taking the correct first-steps to curve our harmful environmental impact. We do a lot by just using the recycling bin instead of the trash," says senior Martin Seals
By protecting it, our lives and the lives of our community are improved as a result. This exciting opportunity gives the school and the programs one of the best recognitions: environmentally strong.