FPS Goes Green with Compostable Trays in 4 Schools
FITCHBURG — Being eco-friendly is extremely important in Fitchburg Public Schools. In Nutrition Services, a switch to compostable, non-styrofoam food trays has been in the works for close to four years.
Now, it’s officially a reality.
“We are thrilled to bring this project to life,” said Nutrition Services General Manager David Semenza. “Switching to compostable trays is a significant step toward sustainability, and we’re excited to make a positive environmental impact while setting an example for our students and community.”
Currently, the schools that are using these new disposable trays are Memorial, Longsjo, Crocker, and Reingold.
“Schools began transitioning to the compostable trays in early December, with all affected schools fully implemented as of January 2,” Semenza said.
The new trays are made from at least 25% recycled materials and 75% renewable resources. They are compostable and are produced in the USA, utilizing materials sourced from North America.
According to Semenza, Fitchburg Public Schools use approximately 375,000 disposable trays as part of their meal programs each year, all of which were styrofoam until now.
Fitchburg High, McKay Elementary School, and South Street Early Learning Center use washable, reusable trays.
“We are unable to use reusable trays at the other schools due to the age of the buildings and the necessary plumbing and electrical upgrades needed to install dishmachines, which is a requirement for using reusable trays,” Semenza explained.
The switch to compostable trays has been a success, admits Semenza.
“The feedback received has been overwhelmingly positive,” he said. “Staff and students appreciate the improved environmental impact.”
While the financial cost of the compostable trays is somewhat higher than that of styrofoam trays, Semenza notes that with effective procedures and cost-control measures, “we have been able to budget appropriately for this change.”
There are expected to be long-term savings in waste disposal as a result of switching to compostable trays.
“One of the long-term goals of the switch to compostable trays is to work with members of the agriculture community in Central Mass, as well as FPS Pathways programs, to use the trays in composting operations,” Semenza stated.
The new compostable trays are extremely sturdy, even more so than the previously used styrofoam trays, and will not negatively affect student meals.
The switch to compostable trays has been a collaborative effort between Fitchburg Public Schools and their food service provider, Sodexo. Both entities share a strong commitment to improving sustainability, and this transition marks a significant milestone in sustainability initiatives.
