(posted April 6, 2010)

In a surprise announcement today, Loris Elementary School learned their recycling efforts had earned them local and state awards. Representatives from the Horry County Solid Waste Authority visited the school to present the 2010 Carolina Recycling Association's Outstanding Recycling Program of the Year for North and South Carolina and the Authority’s own Talkin’ Trash Award for 2009-2010.

Loris Elementary School began participation in the Talkin’ Trash contest in 2008 and recycled 8,345 lbs of paper, plastic, and metal in six months. Two months into the contest for 2009 and the school had recycled 4,221 lbs of paper and plastic. Each month Loris Elementary recycles more than any other school in their category.

The Talkin’ Trash contest was designed to encourage and promote recycling among elementary school students in hopes that they will inspire their parents and make recycling a life skill. The Solid Waste Authority and WBTW TV 13 awards school winners with a computer, student prizes, and media. To date, the school has received two computers. Another feature of the school’s program is the involvement of special needs students as they advocate for recycling with their nondisabled peers.

Loris Elementary School was previously recognized by the authority with a SWA Gold Star School Award for exemplary achievement with school recycling programs. Thus far, the school has saved over 12,000 lbs of material from entering the landfill just with the Talkin’ Trash contest. The school recycles cardboard, steel cans, and classroom paper on a daily basis.