Earth Day Cafeteria Styrofoam/Single-Use Plastic Swap

April 24, 2019

Parkside Elementary School is saying "NO" to Styrofoam: On Friday April 19, the school cafeteria will use biodegradable trays and cutlery in place of the Styrofoam and single-use plastic that they normally use for every meal, every day. Students will be educated on the environmental and health impacts associated with use of plastics and styrene. Removing these non-degradable items from our cafeteria waste stream is the first step toward creating a zero-waste cafeteria. We are looking to start composting next school year.

In response to this initiative, the Atlanta Public Schools system has committed to remove Styrofoam & plastic cutlery from all school cafeterias starting with the 2019/20 school year!

Additionally, CompostNow will visit the third grade classes at the school on April 24. They'll be working in cooperation with our garden educators (The Wylde Center) to educate the students on composting.

Project partners include Atlanta Public Schools' Nutrition, Aramark, and CompostNow.

550

Students attended

60

Staff attended

8

Additional Volunteers attended

550

Students will be impacted this year

Intended impact of project

Reduced environmental impact
Improved occupant health & performance
Increased environmental & sustainability literacy
Reduce landfill waste