Recycling Fashion Show Held by Garden Grove Elementary Students in Honor of Earth Day 2016

Many people, even young students, are becoming more and more conscious about how their actions are impacting the planet. To honor Earth Day, students of Garden Grove Elementary held a recycling-themed fashion show to raise awareness about the importance of reducing, reusing and proper recycling.

“Children love opportunities to learn about protecting the environment and making a difference in the world,” said School Board Member Mónica Ratliff, who represents school. “It is fantastic that Garden Grove Elementary School students are demonstrating what they've learned creatively through design and performance.”

Joined by their parents, school officials and with the support of LAPD West Valley Division, Los Angeles Councilmember Bob Blumenfield’s office, Waste Management of Los Angeles, and the LA Kings, students showcased original pieces made from repurposed materials.

“It is about how each individual can make a difference. We all want a clean, safe environment but every one of us needs to do our part,” explained Captain Ramirez, Commanding Officer of LAPD West Valley Division. “Whether you are a politician, police officer, teacher, resident or a student it is important to make sure our earth and community stays beautiful and safe for future generations. It is important to LAPD to support and promote reducing, reusing and recycling to our future community members. Knowledge and practice of this cycle helps lead to cleaner and more importantly, safer, communities that we all want.”

For nearly a year, students have been learning about the importance of sustainability and putting their skills to use. Last year, Garden Grove Elementary expanded their organics and composting program on campus teaching students the essential skills of composting and gardening. The students’ Earth Day fashion show was a continuation of their sustainability efforts.

"We have been committed to helping communities thrive, by providing them with the tools and support to expand their education and influence," said Councilmember Blumenfield. "Brighter futures start today, and we were overjoyed to show support and see the enthusiasm and creativity of the kids."

In addition to waste reduction being at the center of their green fashions, some students even had LA Kings themed fashions demonstrating their affinity for local sports teams and to foster the sense of community.

“We live in times where we need to re-think waste,” said Kim Ohrt, Municipal Market Manager of Waste Management in Los Angeles. “By teaching younger generations about repurposing materials, we can keep the re-use cycle going and continue to create new out of old.”

ABOUT WASTE MANAGEMENT

Waste Management, based in Houston, Texas, is the leading provider of comprehensive waste management services in North America. Through its subsidiaries, the company provides collection, transfer, recycling and resource recovery, and disposal services. It is also a leading developer, operator and owner of landfill gas-to-energy facilities in the United States. The company’s customers include residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal customers throughout North America. To learn more information about Waste Management visit www.wm.com or www.thinkgreen.com