Qualitative study shows reusable serviceware in school cafeterias
A new qualitative study in the Journal of Child Nutrition & Management found that reusable serviceware—like trays, cutlery, and bulk condiment dispensers—were widely
A new qualitative study in the Journal of Child Nutrition & Management found that reusable serviceware—like trays, cutlery, and bulk condiment dispensers—were widely
This toolkit is designed to help K-12 schools make the transition from single-use food service ware (FSW) to healthier, more sustainable alternatives. Creating healthy and
Several tips for implementing use of reusables in schools were developed. This case study shows that a return to reusable utensils in schools can be good for the bottom line and the environment.
Public schools in the U.S. generate about 14,500 tons of municipal solid waste daily, and approximately 42% of that is food packaging generated by school foodservice, contributing
According to the evaluation system construction in Section 2 for reusable takeaway containers and the comprehensive evaluation
To inform our cost-benefit analysis of a reusable container program, we calculated the potential savings of halting disposable container purchases. The first step was to identify current
The Conscious Cafeteria Report is a national study of 15 elementary schools across the U.S. that participated in a pilot study to switch to reusable stainless steel trays (and, in some cases,
According to the evaluation system construction in Section 2 for reusable takeaway containers and the comprehensive evaluation process in Section 3 (AHP–FCE), the weights of
To improve usage of reusable containers in China, the study suggests that decision-makers adjust promotion strategies to different people, develop reverse systems with a short
While there is no "one-size fits all" approach for moving a school or a school district to reusables, we compiled a variety of approaches, perspectives, research, case studies, and experience
Plastic bags, food packaging and containers are common plastics used in schools. Oklahoma State University reports that one school-aged student who uses disposable lunch products
While there is no "one-size fits all" approach for moving a school or a school district to reusables, we compiled a variety of approaches, perspectives,
PDF version includes complete article with source references. Suitable for printing and offline reading.
We are excited to announce Ditching Disposables: A Toolkit for Healthier Foodware in K-12 Schools. This toolkit is designed to help K-12 schools make the transition from single-use food service ware (FSW) to healthier, more sustainable alternatives.
This case study shows that a return to reusable utensils in schools can reduce both costs and life cycle environmental impact. Moreover, the case study shows that common concerns about reusables – that on-site water and electricity use will undercut environmental benefits – are unfounded.
While reusables may not be an immediate option for all schools, it is important to prioritize sustainability and health, and look for ways to eliminate single-use products wherever possible. To read the toolkit, click the image above.
The per student cost for food ware, per year, after three years, was estimated to drop from $6.95 for disposables to $2.56 for reusables. This breaks down such that durable bowls would cost the schools $1,700 more for reusables over three years, while the stainless steel utensils would save the schools over $26,000.