WasteLAB, a mobile education program sponsored by Greater Greenville Sanitation, achieved better-than-expected success in its first year of operation. A former 10.5-ton semi-trailer, WasteLAB has been converted into a mobile teaching center and uses summative assessments to measure a student’s knowledge of waste minimization and resource conservation.

“The test results are the most important metric for GGS,” said Ken Ledford, vice chairman of GGS, in a statement. “It is our hope that what students are learning from this program will translate into greater environmental awareness and stewardship. If it helps to reduce solid waste sent to landfills and increases recycling rates, that’s a win-win!”

Test results in the first year have improved by as much as 16 percent, showing that students are improving in their knowledge of solid waste treatment. WasteLAB uses STEAM-certified digital and tactile games and an onsite educator to help teach students.

WasteLAB is the primary exhibit in GGS’ Sustainable Schools Program, and it’s available free of charge to Greenville County Schools.