TITLE PAGE
Mulch-ivation: One Sheet At A Time
INTRODUCTION
One of the waste materials most schools tend to overlook is paper waste. Due to
out-of-date worksheets, tests, and other unnecessary materials, schools frequently
produce a large amount of paper waste, which usually ends up in landfills. Although
paper decomposes naturally, improper disposal of it still creates a serious
environmental risk. Large scale paper waste fuels pollution by producing toxic
greenhouse gases like methane when it breaks down in landfills. Addressing this issue
through the recycling of paper waste into beneficial products will help decrease the
pollution and encourage ethical behavior in schools.
At PSHS-WVC, the responsibility to build a prosperous future is intrinsically tied
to academic success. Nevertheless, like many other schools, PSHS-WVC produces a
substantial amount of paper waste from old exams, unused papers, old worksheets, and
administrative documents. In numerous instances, this paper waste is neglected, which
adds to environmental degradation while ignoring its potential for reuse.
Paper waste is associated with pollution according to research. The
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that paper makes up 33% of
municipal garbage and 25% of landfill waste. Despite having the ability to decompose,
only 68% of paper gets recycled worldwide, leaving a sizable portion unrecycled and
adding to pollution. Paper production worsens the problem as well; with approximately
40% of the world’s industrial logging, which results in deforestation and biodiversity loss.
These alarming statistics highlight how urgently creative and sustainable solutions to
the paper waste problem are needed.
PROBLEM STATEMENT
When paper waste is improperly disposed of, it pollutes our surroundings and
destroys possibilities for reuse. This buildup worsen environmental harm by causing
landfills to overflow. By putting in place a paper waste decomposition system, schools
can address pollution and lack of environmentally friendly waste management practices.
Incorrect paper waste disposal is becoming a bigger issue at PSHS-WVC and
other similar institutions. Unused papers that are thrown, old test papers, and stuck
papers add up to the waste that could be used for other things. In addition to
contributing to landfill pollution, this trash represents lost chances to encourage
sustainable behaviors within the school community. What emphasizes the need for a
creative approach that lowers waste and teaches employees and students about
environmentally friendly practices is the lack of a systematic method for recycling paper
waste.
PROPOSED SOLUTION
Paper waste is the second most produced solid waste, accounting for 19% of
the Philippines' municipal solid waste. Most of this wasted paper is thrown into garbage
bins, dumped into landfills, or burned. However, these disposal methods are not viable
solutions. Landfills are becoming increasingly overwhelmed, and burning paper
exacerbates environmental issues by releasing greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide
and methane, along with toxic fumes that harm the atmosphere.
Our proposed solution is both eco-friendly and practical, utilizing natural processes
that do not involve harmful chemicals. This approach leverages natural composting
agents such as food scraps, manure, and other organic materials to decompose paper
waste. The decomposed paper transforms into a nutrient-rich fertilizer that can be used
to nourish plants and gardens within schools, promoting healthier greenery.
This solution not only addresses the issue of paper waste but also contributes to
the circular economy. Paper originates from trees, and through this system, the waste
paper is repurposed to help grow plants; essentially closing the loop. Instead of letting
paper waste decompose in landfills, where it produces harmful byproducts without
benefiting plants, this method ensures that the energy from decomposition is fully
utilized.
This method has a considerable amount of environmental impact as it decreases
paper waste and landfill contamination. It promotes a culture of sustainability in schools
by encouraging students and staff to embrace eco-friendly habits and supporting
sustainable waste management. By offering a less expensive substitute for commercial
fertilizers, it lowers the cost of maintaining school gardens while simultaneously
promoting plant growth and vitality.
This approach is dependable, effective, and simple to use. It contributes to a
healthy earth by lessening the consequences of pollution, greenhouse gas emissions,
and other environmental problems. We can show our dedication to sustainability and
instill environmentally conscious ideals in the next generation by putting this concept
into practice in schools.
METHODOLOGY
1. Put a bin specifically for paper waste which will be the source used for the
innovation.
2. Shred the paper using a shredder
3. Mix the shredded paper with biodegradable materials (except for food products)
4. Pack the compost and turn into fertilizer
5. Use the fertilizer
6. Package and share with the school
EXPECTED IMPACT
● Reduce the volume of paper waste generated at PSHS-WVC.
● Promote a culture of sustainability and eco-consciousness within the school.
● Provide a cost-effective alternative to commercial fertilizers for maintaining
school gardens.
● Serve as a model for other schools looking to implement sustainable practices.
FEASIBILITY AND CHALLENGES
Challenges:
● Initial investment in shredders and bins.
● Encouraging participation from students, faculty, and staff.
● Ensuring the composting process is efficient and scalable.
Proposed Solutions:
● Seek funding or partnerships with environmental organizations.
● Conduct engaging workshops and activities to raise awareness.
● Pilot the project on a small scale before full implementation.
CONCLUSION
Immediate and innovative solutions are needed to address the environmental
problems caused by improper paper waste disposal, such as overflowing landfills and
greenhouse gas emissions. Schools that generate large volumes of paper trash, such
as PSHS-WVC, are uniquely positioned to lead the front in resolving these issues. By
turning paper trash into nutrient-rich organic fertilizer, the MOSSAT project offers a
creative, sustainable, and environmentally beneficial way to cut pollution and promote
the circular economy.
Beyond waste management, this effort could have a wider impact. By urging
faculty, staff, and students to participate in eco-friendly practices, it nurtures a
sustainable culture within the school community. The project establishes a closed-loop
system that transforms a common waste product into a useful resource by reusing
paper trash to support plant development. Its viability and usefulness are demonstrated
by the fact that it lowers the expense of maintaining school gardens by offering a
reasonably priced substitute for commercial fertilizers.
Like initial investment and community engagement, Fundraising partnerships,
awareness campaigns, and small-scale experimental initiatives can help overcome
obstacles. The MOSAAT project is an outstanding instance of how a straightforward,
sustainable concept can simultaneously address social, economic, and environmental
issues.
In summary, in addition to being a solution for PSHS-WVC, the MOSAAT project
serves as an example for other communities and schools to emulate. It points out how
small-scale efforts may lead to big changes, making the world healthier and teaching
the next generation to be environmentally conscious. One piece of paper at a time,
PSHS-WVC can set the standard for creating a sustainable future by embracing and
supporting this project.
REFERENCES
-Parayno, P., & Busmente, M. (n.d.). Project Integration of Solid Waste Management
Tools in Specific European and Asian Communities (ISTEAC) Activity 23 PAPER
RECYCLING SCHEMES IN THE PHILIPPINES Environmental Studies Institute.
https://www.wadef.com/projects/isteac/StudyReport__Paper_Recycling_Research_P
hilippines.Work_Results.pdf
-Facts and Figures about Materials, Waste and Recycling | US EPA. (2024, November
13). US EPA.
https://www.epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling
-The Ultimate Guide to Composting Paper - Sylvicta. (2024, January 17). Sylvicta.
https://www.sylvicta.com/news/ultimate-guide-to-composting-paper/
-Nick. (2024, March 6). How schools can reduce their paper waste. ETM Recycling.
https://www.recyclingbristol.com/how-schools-can-reduce-their-paper-waste/
-Hughes, V. a. P. B. M. (n.d.-b). How paper recycling benefits the environment – The
Waste Management & Recycling Blog.
https://www.forgerecycling.co.uk/blog/how-paper-recycling-benefits-environment/
-Biedermann, A. (2023, December 14). The carbon footprint of paper decomposition.
The Happy Turtle Straw.
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