Replace single use plates with reusable plates

Abstract

Disposable plates and utensils contribute to a large portion of waste stream in most lunchrooms. Single use cutlery and tableware also serves as a recurring cost for food service operations. Switching to, or in most cases back to, reusable plates, reduces the waste stream from avoidable disposables but also the cost of continuously purchasing disposable plates. Although the initial investment in transitioning to reusable plates maybe be significant, according to a recent study conducted in Minnesota at two middle schools, the switch reduced the annual per student cost for food-ware by 30% or a $23,000 saving over three years of use. Also, consider the fact that disposable items in the lunchroom help create an atmosphere where materials, including the food served, are perceived by students as having less value. In such an atmosphere, waste seems more acceptable. The switch to reusable service ware can send a subtle message that the food offered on the plate is itself a valuable resource.