thinkcans.com

If all the cans sold in the UK were recycled for cash there would be £30 million paid to collectors! Think of all the equipment, books and improvement projects that could be funded just by recycling aluminium cans!

Setting up an aluminium can recycling scheme at school is a stimulating way for students to get 'hands on' experience of the benefits of recycling.

Getting a recycling scheme started:

1. Nominate somebody to be responsible for co-ordinating the scheme – your recycling 'Champion'. If your company or building has a facilities department enlist their help to ensure your scheme is a success.
2. Contact your local Think Cans centre for help and advice - Click Here. They can supply posters, leaflets and you may be eligible to receive a free start-up supply of recycling boxes and bags.
3. Announce the start of the scheme in school and at home. If your school does not have aluminium drink cans available to buy in the canteen or in vending machines why not ask pupils to collect aluminium cans at home and bring them into school for recycling?
4. Set up collection points for recycling – place containers close to vending machines, in canteens or by recycling facilities for other materials, e.g. paper.
5. Make it fun! Recycling can be a vibrant part of your school activities and daily life. Why not hold special assemblies, encourage staff to utilise our free teaching resources available online - Click here
   
6. Communicate regularly with teachers, pupils and their families to remind them about the recycling scheme. Use notice boards, newsletters, the school website, letters home and word of mouth – shout about how well the scheme is doing!

HELPFUL TIPS:

1. Tell the cleaner! Make sure the cleaner is aware that the aluminium recycling bins should not be emptied into the general rubbish but saved for recycling.
2. Ask your local can recycling centre if they can give you information about how many kilos have been recycled. This will keep everyone motivated and encourage them to recycle more. (Create a fun totalizer and get everyone involved)
3. Do you require a large quantity of boxes and bags or other supplies for recycling? Find out where and how to get recycling supplies click here.

Think Cans in the Classroom

Guide students around the life cycle of the aluminium can incorporating subjects from the curriculum including Science, English, Maths., Design and Technology, Geography and Citizenship.

• If you're a teacher click here to learn more and download resources.
• If you're a student click here to get homework help, play games and other cool recycling stuff.
• If you're a parent click here to find out how you can help support your child.