Recycling: Summer offers plenty of opportunities to recycle, learn and get involved
As summer gets underway, the Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority (CCRRA) is offering a variety of programs and events designed to help residents learn about recycling, waste reduction, and how to make a positive impact in the community.
Families looking for a fun and educational summer activity can join CCRRA and The Arboretum at Penn State for a series of hands-on paper making workshops. Participants will learn how recycled paper can be transformed into new paper while discovering the importance of waste reduction and resource conservation.
During each session, children will create their own handmade paper and add wildflower seeds, turning their finished project into a plantable keepsake that can be taken home and enjoyed long after the workshop ends. The free workshops will be held from 10-11 a.m. at the Arboretum on July 7 and July 28 (the first was held June 23). The activity combines recycling, creativity and nature while giving participants a hands-on look at how everyday materials can be reused in new and meaningful ways.
CCRRA will also be participating in Children’s Day at the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts on July 8. Families attending the event are encouraged to stop by the CCRRA booth to learn more about recycling, waste reduction and sustainability efforts in Centre County.
Staff will be on hand to answer questions, share educational resources and provide information about local recycling programs. Children can also enjoy a fun, hands-on craft activity while learning how small actions can make a big difference for the environment.
Residents can also support recycling efforts while enjoying America’s pastime. CCRRA is once again partnering with the State College Spikes to expand recycling opportunities at the ballpark. Fans are encouraged to recycle plastic bottles, aluminum cans and empty plastic beverage cups using the designated recycling bins located throughout the stadium. The partnership helps divert valuable materials from the landfill and demonstrates how simple actions can make a difference throughout the community.
Organizations interested in enhancing recycling efforts are encouraged to explore CCRRA’s Recycling Mini-Grant Program. The program provides reimbursement funding for projects that improve recycling education and increase the collection of materials processed through CCRRA. Schools, municipalities, nonprofits and community groups with ideas for expanding recycling opportunities can learn more and apply through CCRRA.
Looking ahead to the fall, CCRRA will host a free Tire Collection Event on Saturday, Sept. 12. Registration is available at www.ccrra.org and is required for participation. The collection provides Centre County residents with a convenient opportunity to properly recycle unwanted tires and help prevent illegal dumping and environmental impacts associated with improper tire disposal.
Whether you’re making paper from recycled materials, recycling at a Spikes game, applying for a mini-grant, or preparing for the upcoming tire collection event, there are many ways to get involved and support sustainability efforts throughout Centre County this year.
For additional information on these programs and events, visit www.ccrra.org or follow us on social media for the latest updates.
Amy Schirf is education coordinator for the Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority. Contact her at aschirf@centrecountyrecycles.org.