Lakeshore Recycling gets Chicago schools contract

Lakeshore Recycling Systems of Morton Grove has been awarded an exclusive 5-year contract to handle recycling and waste removal services for all 658 schools in the Chicago Public Schools system.

The selection of LRS is expected to save the nation's third largest school system approximately $1.5 million per year through the implementation of programs designed to streamline and economize previous service levels.

"We are pleased to announce the selection of Lakeshore Recycling Systems as our exclusive recycling and waste removal partner," said Meredith C. McDermott, sustainability manager for Chicago Public Schools. "From students to principals, custodians to district chiefs, and parents to community leaders, our awareness of the significant footprint we have as a large district is essential to our continuous improvement. The recycling process can help mitigate our overall impact while also teaching the younger generation to be environmental stewards."

LRS secured the contract in part for its ability to measurably increase recycling participation, working closely with CPS to establish key performance indicators that track the success of service level goals targeted at raising awareness among students, teachers/faculty, building staff, parents and communities on the importance of recycling and waste diversion.

"Winning the Chicago Public Schools contract is certainly a feather in our cap from a business perspective, but more importantly it represents an opportunity to measurably impact, educate and empower future generations on the importance of recycling and respect for the environment we all share," said LRS Managing Partner Josh Connell.

Chicago Public Schools serves 400,000 students in 658 schools. It is the nation's third-largest school district.