School Chemical Cleanout Campaign
The Origin
The Nebraska School Chemical Cleanout Campaign (NESC3) began with a call from a school secretary regarding the disposal of old and hazardous material. Recognizing an unmet statewide need, KNB assembled a leadership team from 20 agencies representing governmental, school, health, and safety concerns to shape procedures and goals. A website was also developed to help maintain proper chemical management.
Total Schools Serviced
Total pounds removed
We’re Here to Help
This program offers a variety of ways to help Nebraska schools safely and effectively work with chemicals in both their labs, and janitorial closets. The program currently operates under a three year grant from the Nebraska Environmental Trust, and year to year funding from Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy. Assistance includes:
- Educational materials covering numerous important topics including:
- Chemistry lab safety guidelines
- Secondary safety guidelines
- Chemcial hygiene plans
- Less toxic alternatives
- Proper storage patterns
- NDEE school guidance documents
- Manual for chem lab inspectors
- Disposal guidelines
- Chemical inventory templates
- Organizational Partnerships to achieve program goals
- Technical Assistance
- Plan and budget for chemical purchases, management, and disposal
- Conditional Inventory Services
- Coordination of chemical disposal services including follow up on unwanted chemicals left behind
- Chemical disposal funding: Program Grants cover 90% of disposal costs, with schools responsible for the remaining 10%
- Disposal vendor payments
Resources & Materials
Our comprehensive library of resources is designed to support schools in safely managing and removing hazardous chemicals. We provide accessible training materials and instructional videos tailored for school staff, ensuring proper handling and compliance practices. In addition, schools can find regulatory guidance, chemical storage templates, and safety guidelines to support daily operations. For emergency preparedness, our response plans offer clear, step-by-step procedures to help schools respond effectively to chemical incidents. These tools are developed to promote a safer learning environment and ensure regulatory compliance.
Why Participating in the Program Matters
KNB has cleaned out dangerous chemicals from 231 (79%) of K-12 schools in Nebraska. Revived in 2022 after a five year hiatus, the program is working to keep schools safe for years to come!
Dangerous chemicals come from chemistry, biology and art classrooms; maintenance; janitorial areas; and school cafeterias!
Leftover chemicals allow for a greater chance of exposure through spills and explosions.
Keep Nebraska Beautiful is committed to helping 100% of Nebraska schools safely manage and dispose of lab chemicals. Together, we can protect our students, staff, and environment by ensuring responsible chemical handling and disposal.
Get The Program for Your School
Contact Keep Nebraska Beautiful today to learn more about what the program can do for your education.