When seniors Hannah McDonell and Joshua Kuether realized most of the school’s trash was going to waste, they decided to make a change.

“We realized nothing was getting composted,” Kuether said.

They contacted City Council member Anne Mavity who got the Hennepin County commissioner, environmental services and the principal involved.

Instead of forming a new club, McDonell and Kuether decided to merge with the already existing club, Roots and Shoots.

Club adviser Al Wachutka said he felt it important to be involved with the program.

“The district wrote for a grant so that we could start a program,” Wachutka said. “No one took responsibility, so I said I would.”

McDonell said she also feels this is an important duty to the environment and the high school.

“As landfills grow, usable land is becoming scarce and if something can be made into soil, we should do it,” McDonell said.

The program consists of using organics and garbage bins. McDonell and Kuether help direct students to the correct bin.

Freshmen Khalid Abdilahi said he supports the new system.

“It is nice because recycling is good for the earth. It is easy to use, it is organized,” Abdilahi said.

Wachutka said he hopes to expand the project and its membership, even after leaders McDonell and Kuether graduate.

“Anyone is welcome to help. Recycling of paper and other items in the school to function well, which will take student action,” Wachutka said.