Where Does the Garbage Go?
Franklin Elementary students enjoy trip to landfill and recycling center
by Amber Brown
April 18, 2008
After reading a book Where Does the Garbage Go? By Paul Showers, first grade students in Ms. Messersmith's and Mrs. Peterson’s rooms and third grade students in Mrs. Brown’s room got a hands-on look at the real thing.
First, students visited the Prairie Hill Landfill in Holdrege. At the landfill, students learned how the landfill was created, how many pounds of garbage are collected each day, and how the landfill is maintained. It was fascinating to watch appliances being smashed and then baled before being sent away to be recycled. Did you know that each person creates 4 pounds of garbage each day? It was fun to see the landfill team in action.
Next, students visited the Holdrege Area Recycling Center. After learning how paper, plastic, aluminum, and tin are recycled, students had an opportunity to help with the process of recycling. Watching plastic being recycled was interesting; first it is sorted and then it is shredded into tiny pieces that look like snow. Students assisted at the recycling center by sending cardboard up the conveyor belt. Once full, the machine smashes the cardboard into large bales which are later picked up by a semi.
If you would like to help our community, remember to recycle!
