Environmental Club Leads Charge on Composting Sustainability

by Asifa Pasin (Photo courtesy Orcas Farm to Classroom/Mandy Randolph)

Students in Orcas Island High School’s Environmental Club want to make an impact that goes beyond the classroom – they have a vision to create a more eco-conscious campus and a desire to implement a system that benefits the environment. With a shared goal of tackling waste management and sustainability through the power of composting, they contacted ORS/The Exchange for help. 

The Environmental Club members are learning firsthand about this process and the environmental benefits, aiming to not only reduce the school’s waste but also to educate their peers and community on the importance of sustainable living.

The push for composting at Orcas Island High School comes at a time when sustainability efforts are growing in importance around the globe. 

Data from a Recycle Track Systems (RTS) report states that each year the US accounts for “almost 60 million tons of food waste” equating to “325 pounds of waste per person”. According to the USDA this is almost 40 percent of the entire food supply in the US.

As the world faces the challenges of climate change, waste reduction, and environmental degradation, students are becoming more engaged in finding solutions that can make a difference. The Environmental Club at Orcas Island High School is at the forefront of this movement.

“We believe that implementing composting at our school will have a huge impact on our waste reduction goals,” said Soli, a dedicated member and President of the Environmental Club. “Not only will it reduce the amount of organic waste going to the landfill, but it will also create an opportunity to educate the entire student body about sustainability and how they can make a difference in their daily lives.”

The ultimate goal for the Environmental Club is to have a fully functioning composting system in place by the end of the 2024-25 school year. With the help of ORS, and a group of dedicated volunteers, this may be possible.

“We want this to be a long-term solution,” said club advisor Mrs. Alprin. “Our students are working hard to ensure that they have the right knowledge and resources to build a sustainable composting system that can continue even after they graduate.”

Beyond the school walls, the students are working with ORS in their composting efforts. They’re hoping to offer educational workshops and events to showcase the importance of composting and sustainability. By involving their peers, teachers, and local residents, their goal is to build momentum for a more sustainable future.

As the Environmental Club and ORS continue its efforts to bring composting to Orcas Island High School, they are hopeful for the future. The project represents more than just waste management; it’s an opportunity to foster a generation of students who are passionate about sustainability, eager to learn, and committed to making a positive impact on the environment. 

While the journey is just beginning, the commitment and enthusiasm of these students are already making a difference. With hard work, collaboration, and a shared vision, the Environmental Club is well on its way to creating a more sustainable school—and a more sustainable Island.