Waste Reduction Tips
By taking a look at their paper usage, purchasing habits, and lunch room processes, schools will find that they have a variety of opportunities to reduce or prevent waste. Visit the California Integrated Waste Management Board's (CIWMB) Waste Prevention Ideas for Schools and Classrooms for some useful tips. Waste reduction strategies for specific departments within a school district are also available to assist your school in reducing waste. You can also find out what other schools have done by visiting the CIWMB's Model School Waste Reduction page.
Waste-free Lunches
Lunch waste often consists of plastic bags and utensils, packaging (e.g. drink cartons and cookie wrappers) and paper napkins. This adds up to a lot of waste. Students, parents, teachers and school administration can do something to help minimize or even eliminate that unnecessary waste - have waste-free lunches!
Parents and Students: Try to pack a waste-free lunch by using the following:
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Reusable lunchbags or lunchbox
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Reusable food and drink storage containers
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Stainless steel forks and spoons
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Cloth napkins
By buying products in bulk and buying reusable items, you can help reduce waste and may even be able to reduce your grocery bill.
School staff: School staff play a vital role in educating parents and children about waste-free lunches. Not only can a waste-free lunch program benefit the environment but it can also help reduce the school's disposal costs. Visit the Waste Free Lunches website for ideas and resources for starting your school's program.
Waste-free lunch links:
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EcoMall - Includes an article with information and tips on packing a waste-free lunch