Successful school recycling requires clear guidance and proper equipment. StopWaste provides resources to help schools set up sorting stations, train students and staff, and maintain high diversion rates.

Sorting Station Guides

Meal Sorting Station Guide

StopWaste’s Meal Sorting Guide illustrates one of the best practices in setting up your indoor or outdoor meal sorting station – placing the bins in an order that will encourage proper sorting.

Cafeteria Sorting Station Rollout Guide

Looking to kick off waste sorting in the cafeteria? StopWaste’s Cafeteria Sorting Station Rollout Guide provides some of the considerations and best practices to keep in mind as you build towards a successful sorting program at your school. This guide utilizes the 5-Step Action-Based Learning Model as a framework. However, there is no one-size fits all program for every school and you will have to tailor procedures to your particular school site.

Signage & Visual Tools

Signmaker — Create Custom Recycling and Composting Signs

What You Can Create Bin Signs Labels for recycling, compost, and garbage containers showing exactly what goes in each bin. Wall Posters Larger instructional signs to mount above bin stations. Custom Content Tailor signs to your specific waste streams — show only the items your facility actually generates. Features Multiple languages — Create signs in English, Spanish, Chinese, and more Customizable items — Choose which materials to show Print-ready — Download high-quality files for printing Free to use — No account or payment required Tips for Effective Signage Place Signs Where They're Needed

State Mandates for California Public Schools

This one page summary of state mandates for California public schools covers AB827, AB341, AB1826 and SB1383.

End-of-Year Resources

Locker Leftover Guide

The last days of school present a major waste reduction challenge and opportunity for schools. With a bit of pre-planning, schools can divert reusable and recyclable materials from the landfill while providing a more organized end-of-year clean-out procedure. The East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse, in partnership with StopWaste and the Alameda County Office of Education has produced a guide to end-of-school-year waste reduction.

Partner Resources