Multi-Step School Program Honored by CalEPA

The State of California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) has awarded StopWaste one of its 2016 Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership (GEELA) Awards for its multi-step school program.

“We are honored to be recognized by the Governor as an environmental leader in California,” said Dan Kalb, an Oakland City Councilmember and Chair of StopWaste. “I want to thank staff for years of dedicated work to make this program a successful asset to schools in Alameda County, and a model for schools across the state.”

StopWaste’s five-step action model has been used in Alameda County schools for more than a decade, diverting thousands of tons from the landfill, and empowering children to be critical thinkers, problem solvers, and environmental champions in their communities. The program utilizes creative approaches to waste reduction, from “buddy readings” for younger students, to student-led assemblies and working alongside UC Berkeley students to bring sustainability to Cal football and basketball games.

The program would not be possible without many partners, including Waste Management of Alameda County, BLT Enterprises of Fremont, and the Alameda County Office of Education.

According to CalEPA, GEELA winners successfully integrate resource conservation, environmental protection, and economic progress. Only 12 programs throughout the state are awarded each year.

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