waste management project essay

Throughout my research on waste management and recycling, I have learned that even the smallest choices do make a difference. For example, if I myself begin recycling regularly, I not only reduce the waste I am producing, but I set an example for those around me. This is clearly shown through the RecycleMania competition. The fact that there is even a competition and convention for schools interested in recycling is not only huge, but it also fires up other schools and encourages them to join the competition and start or improve their school’s recycling program. Another example would be Harvard Law School’s guarantee that all of their e-waste is disposed of within the United States. The fact that it is even possible eliminates any excuses on behalf of any other institutions. So, overall the most important lesson I learned about recycling and waste management is that a small decision goes a long way…and that there are those that are watching us, and following our examples.
This project and presentation taught me a lot about working with a partner and relying on that individual. All throughout high school, I was always paired up with partners that didn’t pull their own weight. This was the first project I was involved in that all the work was shared equally. I had to learn to trust Andrew and give him the space he needed to work comfortably. I was very tempted to take some of his workload on myself so that I could ensure that it was done correctly. My worries were for naught. Andrew did a great job researching his topic and was very well prepared. I believe through this experience I grew as a student and as a person by learning to rely on others to do their part (when their competent) and not stress about it so much.
The presentation really enhanced my knowledge of Elmhurst College. Since my part of the topic wasn’t related to Elmhurst College, I learned about our school’s recycling habits and such on the day of the presentation. It was enlightening to say the least. It was wonderful to hear firsthand how helpful and willing the faculty and staff were to interview with the students. It was also great to have an audience that had power on campus, and was actually engaged what we were saying in the presentation. I hope to experience that for myself during this next project.
This whole past month completely supported my view of what liberal education is. To start off, the project’s subject is something that actually effects us as individuals, as a community, and as global citizens. Then, we’re focusing not only on the big picture, but we’re bringing what we learned back and applying it to Elmhurst College. If that wasn’t enough, our audience consisted of faculty members that held the power to change things in campus…the power to get things done. They were a wonderful engaged audience and seemed to have a genuine interest in what we thought on the subject. All of this is my ideal when I think of a liberal education and has affirmed me in my choice of colleges.
Overall, I really enjoyed this past month of class. I feel that I have learned about myself, my classmates, the environment, and Elmhurst College itself. This project has really convinced me to improve my daily choices to recycle and using environmentally healthy products. I have found myself making a conscious decision to buy recyclable products and purchasing more environmentally-friendly goods—something that I had never thought of before. Overall, the lessons I have learned and the knowledge I have acquired will follow me for years.