Program Resources

Solid Waste Management Education

Extension Program Resources-Community Development 1996

I. Title of Program or Issue:	Solid Waste Management Education
A. Situational Statement:	The severity of solid waste issues is well document in the United States. The passage of Ohio Amended Substitute House Bill 592 in 1988 radically altered waste management practice in the state, and presented new challenges and opportunities for local governments. Through the creation of Solid Waste Management Policy Boards, solid waste planning and implementation has become a necessary and highly visible activity at the local level. Information for citizens is imperative as citizen action is that which will ultimately change solid waste practices.
B. Description/Educational Objectives:	The educational program in solid waste is a broad, deep, and diverse array of resource packages and programs for county agents to use in local settings. Objectives vary from program to program, but have a few constants: To empower citizens to make personal decisions regarding solid waste with a broader understanding of the issues To identify the individual's role in contributing to the problems and solutions for solid waste To create a broader understanding within individuals of how individual action fits into the big picture of solid waste management.
C. Suggested Time Required for Program; Time of Year:	The best time is based on several factors: local issues as they arise; holiday seasons; waste generation patterns. Some of the particular programs are time bound: Don't Bag It is best suited for early spring through early summer; Trees for the Holidays: Tress for the City for autumn; Backyard Composting is ideal for early spring or early fall.
D. Audience and Level of Offering:	Programs designed for various group implementations. Group size is flexible.
E. Teaching Methods, Resources, Costs:	Teaching methods are participatory and presentational. Teaching guides are available on a wide array of subjects: household hazardous waste; integrated solid waste; backyard composting; municipal composting; Reduce, Reuse,RETHINK; recycling. Fact sheets, displays videos and slide sets are also available.
F. Contact Person(s), Location:	Dr. Joe E. Heimlich, Leader, Environmental Sciences, Community Development, 204 Mount Hall, 1050 Carmack Road, Columbus, OH 43210-1002; 614-292-6926