SANTA ANA (CNS) – Students in Orange County will soon have access to “Project Zero Waste,” a free kindergarten-through-12th-grade curriculum focused on recycling, composting and environmental sustainability through a program launched by OC Waste & Recycling and the Orange County Department of Education.
Officials said the digital curriculum is designed to align with California science and social science standards and will be offered in English, Spanish and Vietnamese to schools and homeschool families countywide.
The program includes age-appropriate lessons ranging from basic waste sorting and composting concepts for younger students to climate science, methane emissions and food recovery systems for older students.
“Project Zero Waste gives educators practical tools to engage students in meaningful conversations about sustainability while supporting academic standards,” Tom Koutroulis, director of OC Waste & Recycling, said in a statement. “By making the curriculum available throughout Orange County, we are helping students understand how everyday choices connect to environmental outcomes, empowering the next generation as part of the solution.”
Officials said the curriculum expands on the county’s existing EcoChallenge environmental education program by adding more hands-on learning opportunities and encouraging students to apply sustainable habits at school and at home.
“Project Zero Waste connects classroom learning with real-world environmental challenges, helping students develop knowledge and habits that benefit their schools and communities,” Orange County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stefan Bean said.
The agencies also announced plans to incorporate free field trips into the program, giving students opportunities to tour waste management and recycling facilities. According to officials, field trip opportunities for the 2026 school year are already fully booked.
Project Zero Waste materials will be delivered digitally, allowing teachers to incorporate lessons throughout the school year, officials said.
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