Columneetza Junior Secondary: From Bottles to Barbells

For over six years, recycling has become key to the health, fitness, and community spirit of Columneetza Junior Secondary School in Williams Lake. What began with a simple idea—to use bottle deposits to improve the school’s weight room—has since grown into a program that continues to strengthen both students and the environment.

The recycling program started by placing the Return-It bins around the school, paired with class presentations to education students and fun competitions to encourage participation. By linking recycling directly to something students were passionate about—fitness—the initiative quickly gained momentum. The funds collected were dedicated to building and upgrading the school’s weight room, giving students access to improved equipment and a supportive space to build healthy habits.

The program also benefited from strong community support. The Parent Advisory Council encouraged the initiative, while local businesses contributed by donating their refundable containers.

In just one year of tracking their efforts, Columneetza students and staff collected 15,661 containers, raising $1,563.80. The funds have gone directly toward improving the weight room with new weights and updated cardio machines. The facility now supports after-school fitness programs, sports teams, and recreational activities that help students build strength, resilience, and teamwork.

Thanks to the program, students can see firsthand how their small actions can create meaningful results for their community.

Columneetza aims to continue developing its weight room and expanding recycling efforts to engage even more of the community.

"This contest was a fantastic opportunity for our students to showcase their creativity and commitment to sustainability. It's been inspiring to see them take the lead in our school's recycling initiative and engage with the local community to make a difference." - Tanner Gainer, PHE Teacher, Columneetza Junior Secondary School