The Cuyahoga County Solid Waste Management District is accepting applications for its 2016 Master Recycler class.

I took this class in 2013, and it was well worth the time and effort.

• Our class consisted of a group of committed recyclers. Unless you work in the industry (and maybe even if you do), this probably doesn’t happen to you very often.
• We got to know the Solid Waste Management District staff and the valuable functions they provide for the communities in Cuyahoga County.
• The lectures and tours (four lectures, alternating weekly with four tours/field trips) explored and clarified many of the confusing aspects of recycling and what determines what goes into the recycling bin.
• In lecture sessions, we heard from experts in waste management and from many of agencies that reuse, repurpose, or recycle materials that would otherwise go into the landfill.
• Our tours took us to waste management facilities of various types, explained and demonstrated each facility’s purpose and operations, and gave us ample opportunity to talk with the facility’s representatives.
• One tour in particular, our visit to the Cleveland Habitat for Humanity ReStore, was particularly joyful for me: I discovered a kitchen appliance that I later purchased. (See my blog post Shopping Recycled: How I Replaced My Jenn-Air Range at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore and Saved Over $2,000.)

I encourage anyone with a commitment to zero waste/waste reduction, waste management, or recycling to consider the Master Recycler program. But don’t dally: only a few spots remain for this year’s class.

What can you expect from the Master Recycler program?

• You’ll have the opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of solid waste management issues and practices, including waste reduction, composting, and recycling.
• You’ll develop the personal resources to advocate for recycling and sustainability in the community and the workplace.
• You’ll find opportunities for productive partnerships among your fellow participants.
• Through service learning and volunteer opportunities, you can become a volunteer educator who can represent the District and its mission.

This year’s classes begin Wednesday evening, September 14. For application procedures and details about the program’s requirements and activities, program eligibility, and potential topics and tours, see the Cuyahoga County Solid Waste District website.

Become a Master Recycler: learn how and why to Keep It Out of the Landfill.

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