Protecting the environment isn’t just important, it can be fun!

Browse our collection of videos and activities that teach students about recycling, waste reduction, composting, waste-to-energy and other ways to save the world a little each day.

If you prefer to stream videos from OCRRA’s YouTube page, you can find all five of the videos in our OCRRA in the Classroom playlist.

These activities also fit into NYS curriculum requirements for grades 3 – 5, so teachers can easily integrate them into lesson plans. Check out the content below to get started, or contact us to schedule a classroom presentation.


Overview

Overview video screenshot

Wonder what OCRRA is and how we operate here in Onondaga County? This video:

  • Provides an overview of the history of recycling and trash disposal in our community
  • Explains how OCRRA came to be
  • Outlines OCRRA’s four-part system, which preserves resources and keeps our community beautiful

Curriculum addressed:

  • CCSS ELA RI 3.7, 4.7, 5.7
  • CCSS ELA RI 3.1, 4.1, 5.1
  • CCSS ELA RI 3.4, 4.4, 5.4
  • NYS Science Standard 4: Living Environment

Composting

Composting video screenshot

Composting transforms unwanted food scraps and yard waste into materials that keep landscapes and gardens healthy and beautiful.

  • Learn how the composting process works
  • Discover how you can get started at home – or with a little help from OCRRA

Curriculum addressed:

  • CCSS ELA RI 3.7, 4.7, 5.7
  • CCSS ELA RI 3.1, 4.1, 5.1
  • CCSS ELA RI 3.4, 4.4, 5.4
  • NYS Science Standard 4: Living Environment

Recycling

Recycling video screenshot

Your blue bin is one part of the recycling process. Check out this video to learn:

  • What items can be recycled
  • What happens to them once they are collected on garbage day
  • What new things are made from the everyday items you recycle

Curriculum addressed:

  • CCSS ELA RI 3.7, 4.7, 5.7
  • CCSS ELA RI 3.1, 4.1, 5.1
  • CCSS ELA RI 3.4, 4.4, 5.4
  • NYS Science Standard 4: Living Environment

Reduction

Reduction video screenshot

Preserving our natural resources and reducing waste are things you can do anywhere, including at school, at home, or in your community. Get tips on how you can do your part to help save the world a little each day!

Curriculum addressed:

  • CCSS ELA RI 3.7, 4.7, 5.7
  • CCSS ELA RI 3.1, 4.1, 5.1
  • CCSS ELA RI 3.4, 4.4, 5.4
  • NYS Science Standard 4: Living Environment

Trash

Trash video screenshot

Preserving our natural resources and reducing waste are things you can do anywhere, including at school, at home, or in your community. Get tips on how you can do your part to help save the world a little each day!

Curriculum addressed:

  • CCSS ELA RI 3.7, 4.7, 5.7
  • CCSS ELA RI 3.1, 4.1, 5.1
  • CCSS ELA RI 3.4, 4.4, 5.4
  • NYS Science Standard 4: Living Environment
Characters holding up save the world signs
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