Did you know that Washington State’s recycling rate is stagnant at 51%? In 2011, a King County study found that 39.7% of things thrown away could have been composted, and 21% could have been recycled. Over half of what’s tossed could be turned into new products or into beneficial compost.  Using recycled aluminum cans to make new aluminum cans uses 95% less energy than using raw material; for every ton of paper made from recycled paper, 17 trees are saved, and 50% less water is used. Most people want to recycle but are often confused by how to do it properly. That is where Waste Warriors can help.

Saturdays, July 22^nd, July 29^th, and August 5^th 10am-4pm

Plus one evening tour (TBD)

McCollum Park 600 128^th St NE, Everett, WA 98208

And various locations around Snohomish County

All Waste Warriors receive 18 hours of training!  This training not only will teach you the nuances of recycling and composting, but will also make you an expert that all of your neighbors and friends will call upon when they’re confused. You’ll have the opportunity to educate the public about recycling and composting at local festivals as well.

In this three week training, you’ll learn from expert presenters on why things can and cannot be recycled, where our recycling goes, backyard composting techniques, and how to reduce your waste overall; as well as have an opportunity to tour a local recycling center. The topics this training will include are:

• Waste 101
• Recycling Myth and Fact
• Product Stewardship/Producer Responsibility
• Household Hazardous Waste
• Green Cleaning
• Backyard Composting
• Commercial Composting Systems

After the training is complete, you will be asked to give 16 hours back to the program at festivals located throughout Snohomish County in August and September. You will provide crucial education to the public about keeping our compost system free of plastics, why only some plastics are recyclable, and how to correctly sort waste. Additional volunteer opportunities in September and October will focus on non-toxic product outreach and proper storage of household chemicals.

Because this training will only be offered once in 2017 and seating is limited, there is an application process. The deadline to apply is Friday, July 7th. A $35 fee (to cover materials) will be due after you have been accepted. Applications can be found here: 2017 Waste Warrior Application

For more information, please contact Stephanie Leeper, Sustainable Community Stewards Coordinator, WSU Snohomish County Extension at s.leeper@wsu.edu or 425-357-6027.