An existing curriculum to be used in study circles on "Voluntary Simplicity" has been revised to include explicit information and resources regarding waste reduction. The staff of Great River Earth Institute collaborated with Anoka County staff to create one-page supplements focused on waste reduction topics for the Voluntary Simplicity course materials.

Eight study circles with ten people each based on this curriculum were held in Anoka County, with additional groups beginning in fall and winter. Groups that have begun or completed the course include church groups, "mothers" groups, homeschoolers, seniors, high school students, county employees and others. Survey results show that approximately nine out of 10 participants have taken steps reduce their household garbage by the time the course ends. Specific actions they undertake include bringing shopping bags to the store, using the other side of paper, looking for products with less packaging, composting outdoors and with worm bins, and stopping junk mail. Many report plans to educate other household members and friends.