New Bedford, Massachusetts - On March 31, 2008, the New Bedford School Committee unanimously voted to support a motion submitted by Mayor Scott W. Lang to institute a school recycling program throughout the New Bedford Public Schools System.
 
The Mayor stated, “The children of today are the trustees of our environment.  The earlier our children have an opportunity to learn about the importance of protecting the earth’s threatened resources and how to develop a cleaner global environment, the better. Our kids will be the recycling generation and I want New Bedford children to lead the charge on the City’s expanded recycling efforts.” 

As of Earth Day, on April 22, 2008, schools district wide will recycle not only paper but also cans plastic and cardboard items.  This program will teach students the importance of recycling and will allow them to participate in a very successful community-wide effort to reduce the amount of waste that goes into our landfill while keeping New Bedford clean. 

Mayor Lang commended his colleagues on the school board for being so receptive to the idea of a district-wide recycling program.  “This policy will not only provide hands on science and environmental education opportunities, but it will generate some additional revenue that will be very helpful in aiding programs our school district needs.  School Committee members have already discussed the potential for this to help subsidize the school lunch program, making school lunch more affordable for children and families,” said the Mayor.