This was one of four debates held during the USSU’s Green Yourself Week. The other four can be accessed here.

DORIS WANG
News Writer

Paper is the most common material in recycling programs, yet it is also a significant part of the waste going to landfills.

According to the City of Saskatoon, 84,000 tonnes of solid waste are created each year by residents — the majority of which is made up of recyclable materials like wood, metal and electronics.

However, a 2006 survey showed that recycling has been rated as having a high degree of importance to Saskatoon citizens. The survey results demonstrate that citizens of Saskatoon generally believe that more significant recycling initiatives are needed.

The debate proposed that Environmental Police could be used to monitor clean practices.

The proposition team argued that the “police” would punish citizens for littering and make blue box recycling mandatory throughout the city.

The opposing side, however, suggested that people need to be educated about recycling and environmental issues rather than be punished for a problem of which they are not aware. They also proposed a reward-based system to encourage environmental-friendly actions.

“I am an advocate for the environment,” said Naila Kuhlmann after debating for the opposition. “We need to inform people about environmental issues and punish those who carelessly damage the environment. I believe this is a good way to educate them.”