Grayson College’s recycling efforts got a boost when 48 collections bins were provided through the Bin Grant Program, a $4,000 grant made possible by The Coca-Cola Foundation. Recipients were chosen by Keep America Beautiful Inc. based on a number of criteria including level of need, recycling experience and the ability of applicants to sustain their program in the future.
“The bins are located across campus, and we expect them to help Grayson’s students, faculty and staff in our efforts to reduce and eliminate the waste of paper and other recyclable materials,” said Jennifer Miller, information technology specialist at the college, who initiated the project. “Paper will be collected in 24 bins while the rest are designated for cans, glass and plastic.”
Miller was joined in the initiative by GC employees Janis Thompson, grant writer, and Michelle Urquizo, facilities services coordinator. The City of Sherman, represented by Michael Springer, solid waste and recycling superintendant, is the project’s community partner.
“Through our partnership with Keep America Beautiful, the Coca-Cola Bin Grant Program supports local community recycling efforts across the United States,” said Lori George Billingsley, vice president of community relations for Coca-Cola Refreshments. “We are pleased that these bins on GC’s campus will provide additional opportunities for people to recycle.”
Matthew M. McKenna, president and CEO of Keep America Beautiful agrees.
“Providing infrastructure for people to recycle on-the-go in our communities is a key component of making recycling a natural thing to do,” he said. “We are truly grateful for Coca Cola’s support and commitment to recycling, and for its support and commitment of the Bin Grant Program.”
The Bin Grant Program awards recycling bins directly to recipients and leverages volume buying discounts. In its seven years of operation, the Bin Grant Program has placed 29,000 recycling bins in over 500 communities in 48 states and the District of Columbia.
Keep America Beautiful, Inc., established in 1953, is the nation’s largest volunteer-based community action and education organization. With a network of more than 1,200 affiliate and participating organizations, Keep America Beautiful forms public-private partnerships and programs that engage individuals to take greater responsibility for improving their community environments.
The Coca-Cola Company is the world's largest beverage company with more than 500 sparkling and still brands. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, the company focuses on initiatives that reduce environmental footprints, support active, healthy living, and enhance the economic development of the communities where it operates.