Applications are open now through May 31, 2025
The Carton Council is offering grants of up to $5,000 to help K-12 schools in the U.S. and Canada establish, enhance or expand their carton recycling programs. Grant funds can be used to purchase sorting equipment or collection bins, create communications, print signage, establish a “green team,” and more!
NOTE: Only schools that have existing access to carton recycling through their recycling services provider are eligible to apply. Interested applicants are encouraged to review the Frequently Asked Questions document before starting their application.
Looking to establish a carton recycling program? Here’s how you can get started:
Check Availability of Carton Recycling
Ask your local materials recovery facility (MRF) and hauler to confirm that food and beverage cartons are accepted in your community. Discuss with your recycler the logistics surrounding pick up at your school(s).
Engage With School Administration & Staff
Talk with the team of administrators, teachers, principals, cafeteria and custodial staff and PTA/PTO members. Discuss concerns, gain support and identify people who will help develop a program.
Establish Goals
Use estimators to calculate your program’s potential impact, assess what will be needed (including funding and equipment) and establish goals to measure success.
Develop Program Process
Determine the set-up of recycling containers and buckets for excess liquids, location of recycling stations, instructional signage so it is clear to students how and where to place their cartons, and establish roles and responsibilities.
Recruit Advocates
Include students, create a “green team,” name a faculty/lunchroom/janitorial “champion,” and don’t forget the custodial staff. There may be parents who will volunteer to help set up the program.
Launch Program
Train staff on proper procedure. Have helpers aid students to recycle right. Have a principal make an announcement or hold an assembly. Encourage classroom activities to reinforce and motivate.
