Join Groundwork Buffalo as we work hand in hand with our community to nurture a healthier, more vibrant Buffalo for generations to come.
Encourage your community to learn, grow, and take action through our interactive activities below. Each activity is designed for all ages and teaches simple, sustainable steps to help protect our planet — starting right here in Buffalo!
Trash or Treasure?
Turn everyday items into planet-saving opportunities! Learn how to sort items the right way: recycle, reuse, or compost, and discover how small choices can make a big difference for the Earth. Perfect for kids, families, and classrooms!
Recycled
- Is this item made of paper, plastic, glass, or metal?
- Does your local recycling program accept this type of material?
Examples:
Newspapers, cardboard boxes, rinsed jars, aluminum cans, plastic bottles
Reused
- Can this item be used again for its original purpose?
- Can it be repurposed or upcycled into something new?
- Is it in good condition and safe to use again?
Examples:
Jars as containers, old T-shirts as cleaning rags, boxes as toy bins
Composted
- Is this item organic or biodegradable (like food scraps or yard waste)?
- Will it break down naturally without harming the environment?
- Is it free of chemicals, dyes, or coatings that could harm your compost?
Examples:
Fruit and veggie scraps, eggshells, coffee grounds, dry leaves, paper towels
Thrown Away
- Is the item non-recyclable, non-reusable, and non-compostable?
- Is it contaminated with food, chemicals, or other hazardous materials?
- Does your local waste program require it to go in the trash?
Examples:
Plastic wrappers, chip bags, Styrofoam, broken glass, used paper plates
Energy-Saving Scavenger Hunt
Spot the Energy-Wasters and Energy-Savers!
Objective: Let’s help families save energy at home! This scavenger hunt is all about finding items that either waste or save energy around your house. The goal is to spot what you can fix and discover how small changes can save power and help the planet!
Instructions:
Search your home and check off the items you find. Is it an Energy-Saver or an Energy-Waster? Mark each one and see how many energy-saving changes your family can make by the end of the hunt!
Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
- LED or CFL bulbs that use less power
- Old incandescent bulbs that use more electricity
Insulated Windows and Doors
- Well-insulated windows and doors that prevent drafts
- Drafty windows and doors letting in cold or heat
Chargers Left Plugged In
- Unplug chargers when not in use
- Chargers left plugged in even when idle
Thermostat Settings
- Thermostat set to energy-saving temperatures
- Thermostat too high in winter or too low in summer
Appliances on Standby
- Turn off appliances completely (TV, computer, etc.)
- Appliances on standby mode or left running
Lights Left On
- Lights off when leaving a room
- Lights left on in empty rooms
Water Wise Wonders
Become a Water-Saving Superhero! Water is one of our most precious resources, and every small effort counts. These fun challenges help you save water at home, in the garden, and beyond.
The Super Speed Shower
- Challenge: Take a shower in under 4 minutes. Set a timer, get in, get clean, and get out while saving gallons of water!
- Bonus: Try to beat your personal best each week.
The Dishwashing Showdown
- Challenge: Fill the sink once to wash all your dishes and rinse them at once.
- Bonus: Challenge your family and see who can save the most water together!
The Toothbrush Shutoff
- Challenge: Turn off the water while you brush your teeth for a week. Track your success!
- Impact: Compare how much water you saved versus leaving it running.
The Water Detective
- Challenge: Search your house for leaky faucets or pipes. Can you spot sneaky drips?
- Action: With an adult’s help, fix leaks and prevent water waste.