Teaching Children About Recycling

Encouraging the next generation to recycle and incorporate environmentally friendly behaviour into everyday life is a great way to introduce children to the importance of sustainability. As is the case with many topics, children learn in a different manner to more developed adults and young people, therefore approaching matters differently is encouraged. Let WM Thompson & Sons guide you through some of the more inventive ways to teach children about recycling, including selected activities and ways in which to gamify a routine.



The Basics Of Recycling

It is crucial that we educate our younger generation on the significance of waste disposal and the benefits of recycling, while one way to begin this process is by explaining what happens to our waste when it ends up in a landfill site. Landfill sites are vast areas where waste is dumped and buried. Over time, the waste decomposes and produces harmful gases and liquids, which can contaminate the soil, air, and water. These pollutants can pose serious health and environmental risks. By recycling, we can reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and minimise negative impacts. Sustainable landfill sites also exist, such as that used by WM Thompson.

Gamifying The Topic

Children love games and challenges. Turning recycling into a fun and engaging activity can help them grasp the importance of waste disposal. Consider setting up a recycling challenge at home, where children are encouraged to collect and sort different types of recyclables. Make it a competition with rewards for the most creative recycling ideas or the largest amount of recyclables collected. You can also introduce online educational games that teach children about recycling and its positive impact on the environment. Encourage your child to regularly play these games and discuss the lessons they learned afterward.

Activities Around The House

Creating recycling habits at home is crucial for instilling a sense of responsibility in children. Teach them the basics of waste segregation by providing designated bins for different types of waste, such as plastic, paper, glass, and metal. Explain what items can be recycled and which ones should go into the regular waste bin. Encourage children to get creative with recycled materials. Provide them with art supplies, such as paints, glue, and scissors, and let them transform old bottles, cans, and cardboard into beautiful artworks. This not only promotes creativity but also reinforces the idea that discarded materials can have value and be repurposed.

A Sustainable Future

Teaching children about recycling is not just about the present. It is about preparing them for a sustainable future. Discuss with them the consequences of excessive waste production and the importance of conserving resources. Emphasise that recycling is not just a personal choice but a collective responsibility towards protecting the environment. Show children how waste is collected, sorted, and processed for recycling. These hands-on experiences will deepen their understanding and inspire them to become environmental advocates.

Established in 1946 as a small, horse and cart coal delivery business on the banks of the river Clyde, WM Thompson & Sons are now a 4th generation family quarrying business - serving the whole of Glasgow, from Coatbridge to Paisley. If you’re looking for a reliable location to recycle your excess rubbish, simply contact us today!