#plastic-waste-reduction

#plastic-waste-reduction

Commodore Sloat officials say they received handwritten letters from students asking the school to reduce plastic waste -- and school leaders listened. In partnership with Revolution Foods, the school has switched to compostable trays. "It's good for the environment because it can be composted instead in the trash," said teacher Raphael Hitzke. "It's amazing for 10- to 11-year-olds to be heard and having their voices heard. They're our future. They have brand new ideas. We need to listen to them."

Redknapp said his involvement came after seeing first-hand how much waste his own renovation produced. "I'll be honest, I had no idea the amount of plastic waste that came from those old sealant cartridges," Redknapp said. "I'm going through my own home renovation now and it's definitely made me think. It's great to see more sustainable products like this available - what a game-changing impact there would be if more people made the switch."

Concerned about the amount of waste and use of nonrenewable items in school cafeterias, some Bay Area students and school districts have initiated changes toward more sustainable practices. In response to students' requests to be more eco-friendly, the Campbell Union School District has increased recycling efforts and is taking steps to reduce plastic waste. The district also plans to offer compostable utensils and large condiment dispensers in lieu of individual condiment packets.