By: Quinn Burnside

Recycling is officially making its way back to campus, beginning with soft plastics. The Center for Community Engagement (CCE) is allowing students to participate in a sustainability effort. 

Soft plastics are items many students use daily and throw away immediately after usage. These materials are flexible and lightweight, things like grocery bags, bread bags, bubble wrap, and much more. By teaching students what a soft plastic is, the CCE is hoping to keep the recycling bin clean and reduce contamination.

Participation is simple. Students can collect soft plastics, make sure they are both clean and dry, and drop them off in the recycling bin located in the CCE. The bin is easily accessible due to its size and the information written on it, allowing everyone to contribute. As this program grows, the CCE is looking to place more bins around campus.

Once collected from campus by the Rotary Club, the soft plastics are taken to Weyerhaeuser, a business in Upshur County, where the materials are condensed. This is then shipped to Trex, a flooring company that uses recycled plastics to make its products.“The funds Rotary receives are used to purchase playground equipment for parks in Buckhannon,” said Graham Godwin.

Speaking about the CCE’s goals, Graham Godwin explained how the new recycling initiative came from a partnership with the Rotary Club of Buckhannon‑Upshur, he says it “aligned naturally with the CCE’s mission and the goals of the WE LEAD program.” 

He explained how even though soft plastics are some of the most common, they are the most difficult to recycle. Godwin then highlighted the educational impact, stating that “we hope this program increases both awareness and action.”  

As recycling returns to campus, the success of this movement will rely on campus involvement. So, instead of tossing out your plastic bags, take a moment and save them. Every member of West Virginia Wesleyan College can contribute to a cleaner environment and a more sustainable future.

 Although this program is just beginning, with a combined effort, it has the potential to grow into something much larger. With continued community and student support, this initiative can strengthen community partnerships and reduce overall waste. What is starting with a simple plastic bag can lead to meaningful change, proving how small actions can make a big difference.

Photo by: Sarah Kearns