Key Concepts

   1)  Resource consumption by humans leads to solid waste production.  This solid waste   

        must be disposed of properly.

   2)  Resources used in the production of solid waste all come from part of the Earth –

        part of the natural environment.  These resources may be referred to as “natural

        resources.”

   3)  When extracting resources from the Earth, humans have an impact on the natural

        environment.  By using resources wisely we can lessen our impact on the natural

        environment.

   4)  We can use our resources wisely by using the “Three R’s” – Reduce, Reuse, and

        Recycle!

       Key Vocabulary

The following list of terms is defined as each is relevant to recycling:

·         Compost – soil enriching material that results from the natural break down of organic

           material by bacteria, fungi, and other organisms

·         Composting – process of breaking down organic material

·         Conservation – practice of using both natural and manufactured resources wisely to 

           minimize loss and waste

·         Environment – the physical, chemical and biological components that surround us,

           including the relationships and interactions of these components

·         Natural Resource – valuable, naturally occurring material or energy obtained from the

           environment and used to meet human needs; may include soil, wood, air, water, or

           minerals

·         Nonrenewable Resource – resource that cannot be naturally restored or is being used

           faster than it can be replaced

·         Recycle – to separate from waste or collect material and process it for reuse in the same

           form or as a different product

·         Reduce – to lessen the amount of

·         Renewable Resource – a resource that can be naturally restored and when used wisely

           will be used no faster than it is replaced

·         Reuse – to extend the life of a material or product by using it again or by repairing it

·         Solid Waste – non-liquid materials that are thrown away

Use of these materials:  The pre-trip materials are designed to raise student awareness and understanding of recycling-related issues prior to the recycling lesson provided in your classroom.  The materials include an overview of key concepts and vocabulary as well as experiences that can be done in the classroom to increase the knowledge base of the students.  In order to make the visit more meaningful; teachers and students are encouraged to review the key concepts and vocabulary before the lesson.