Good Humans 268, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting environmental consciousness and sustainability, has taken a significant step forward in its efforts to promote recycling and reduce waste across Antigua and Barbuda.
In an impactful move, the organization has expanded its distribution of recycling bins to tertiary-level institutions, starting with the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus (UWIFIC). he handover ceremony, which took place on February 20th, marked a critical milestone for the school recycling program spearheaded by Good Humans 268.
The UWIFIC has now joined other academic institutions in the ongoing recycling initiative. The expansion of this program underscores the importance of sustainable waste management practices and demonstrates the commitment of educational institutions to lead by example in the fight against climate change.
According to a representative from the university’s School of Health and Behavioral Sciences, the institution is fully committed to fostering a greener and healthier planet.
“We understand the importance of climate change, we see the effects, and we know that we have to do something now because of all the challenges that we are facing here in SIDs’ countries. We want to thank Good Humans 268 once again from the School of Health and Behavioral Sciences and the faculty and students who are here just saying to our community that we are on board,” the representative emphasized.
This statement reflects a growing awareness within the university community about the urgent need to address climate change and environmental degradation. The UWIFIC is determined to contribute to the global effort to combat climate change by reducing its carbon footprint and improving waste management practices. The initiative to introduce recycling bins on campus is seen as a practical and impactful step in that direction.
One of the main focuses of the recycling program is the proper collection and sorting of plastic, glass and cans. Plastic waste, particularly single-use bottles, poses a significant threat to the environment due to its non-biodegradable nature. Good Humans 268 aims to tackle this issue by promoting recycling and reuse practices. “We see that there are a lot of plastic bottles, which, instead of sending them to the waste bin or trash heap, we can reuse, recycle, and reduce. So, we deeply appreciate the support and partnership with Good Humans 268,” another representative from UWIFIC noted.
The recycling bins placed at the UWIFIC are designated specifically for empty plastic, glass and cans. The collected bottles are then sorted and processed by Good Humans 268 to ensure that they are properly recycled, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfill.
In her remarks, the President of Good Humans 268 extended heartfelt thanks to the Sandals Foundation and GEF Small Grants for providing the initial funding that made the program possible.
“Without their support, we would not have been able to get this program off the ground,” she said. The funding from these organizations has played a crucial role in enabling Good Humans 268 to expand its recycling initiatives to schools, businesses, and now, tertiary-level institutions.
The expansion of the recycling program to the UWIFIC marks the beginning of a larger push to promote recycling and waste management across various sectors in Antigua and Barbuda. Good Humans 268 has announced that this is the first of several expansions that will occur in the coming weeks. The organization is urging businesses, event promoters, and other community stakeholders to join the recycling cause and support efforts to reduce waste and promote sustainability.
By working together, educational institutions, non-profit organizations, businesses, and the wider community can make a significant impact in the fight against climate change. The introduction of recycling bins at the UWIFIC serves as a model for other institutions to follow, showcasing the power of collective action in creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.
Good Humans 268’s recycling initiative is a testament to the power of grassroots efforts in driving positive environmental change. The organization remains committed to promoting responsible waste management practices and encouraging individuals, businesses, and institutions to take action in support of a healthier planet.
With ongoing support from partners such as the Sandals Foundation and GEF Small Grants, Good Humans 268 aims to expand its reach and impact even further, inspiring a culture of recycling and sustainability throughout Antigua and Barbuda. This initiative is a vital step in addressing the environmental challenges facing the region and building a more resilient future for generations to come.
