Ripples: Dec 2022

Your resource for environmental education updates, workshops, and more.

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December 2022

Volume: 33 Issue: 2

ABC's of Smart Recycling - Letter L for Labels!

Are you confused about recycling labels? What do those numbers in the middle of the triangle mean?

These symbols have a complicated history. Learn more about what the labels really mean and how you can use them to be a more effective recycler.

Read the "L is for Labels" blog post.

Activities, Awards & Events

Illinois Green Ribbon School Applications - Due Jan 9 2023

The Green Ribbon Schools Program recognizes schools, districts, and higher education institutions with active programs, community actions, and dedication to sustainability. Sponsored by the Illinois Green Alliance together with the ISBE and IBHE.

Learn more or download an application here.

U.S. EPA Awards for Students and Educators

Do any of your students deserve acknowledgement for outstanding work? The President's Environmental Youth Award recognizes environmental stewardship projects by K-12 youth.

The EPA is also offering a Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators. This award recognizes K-12 teachers who have created an exciting environmental education lesson or program.

Please consider nominating students and teachers for these awards, so we can honor, support, and encourage environmental leadership in our community. Application deadline for both awards is January 11, 2023.

High School Sustainable Design Challenge - April 18, 2023

The Sustainable Design Challenge is just around the corner. This annual event provides hands-on, engineering experiences that stick with students.

Start planning now and encourage your students to enter the 2023 sustainable design challenge!

Learn more about the SDC here.

Eco Craft Ideas

Looking for art projects or crafts that students can create using found objects or recycled materials? SCARCE has ideas and supplies to help you make your classroom a rich source for STEAM creativity!

Cheri Johnson, artist and SCARCE volunteer, created these cute little fellows.

More Trash to Treasure ideas here

Green Good News

Former SCARCE educator and board member Bob Blaus received the 2022 Educator of the Year award from Bluebird Restoration Association of Wisconsin. Nice work, Bob!

Scouts from Conrad Fischer Elementary School in Elmhurst attended an educational program at SCARCE to learn about watersheds, hard working mussels, and local fish.

Pumpkin SMASH a Hit!

Despite some scary weather, this year's Smash continued to grow

with 75 locations and over 200 tons (and counting!) of pumpkins kept out of landfills.

Upcoming Eco-Events

DEC 10

Wheaton Monthly Recycling Event 9am-12noon

DEC 17

Lisle Quarterly Recycling Event 8am-12noon

March 3, 2023 is DuPage County Teacher Institute Day

Join Our Workshop!

SCARCE has a jam-packed workshop planned for the March 3 countywide Teacher Institute Day with ideas for every grade level.

Find out more about the Attainable Sustainables Workshop.

SCARCE Shining Stars

Local organizations have been contacting SCARCE this holiday season to request books for the families they serve.

Thank you to all of the SCARCE volunteers, including teachers and high school students, who are helping us fill these orders so we can provide brand new books to children for the holidays.

You brighten the lives for so many in our community!