Students urge switch to compostable sporks for hot lunch service

The San Rafael City Elementary School Board of Education held a regular meeting on April 21, 2025, where students presented significant environmental initiatives and sought support for a sustainable change in their lunch program.

During the meeting, students highlighted their successful efforts in reducing waste within their school community. They reported a dramatic decrease in lunchtime waste, cutting down the number of black trash bags used from seven to just two in a span of four months. This achievement was attributed to their educational campaigns on proper waste sorting and the transition from single-use items to reusable and refillable alternatives.

A key focus of the discussion was the use of single-use plastic sporks provided to students during lunch. Currently, around 200 hot lunches are served daily, each accompanied by a plastic spork, which is packaged with additional single-use plastic items. The students expressed their concern about the environmental impact of these plastics, particularly their contribution to ocean pollution.

To address this issue, the students proposed an alternative: switching to compostable sporks. They noted that their food service provider is ready to make this change but requires approval from the school board. The students urged the board to support their initiative, emphasizing the importance of reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability within their school.

The meeting underscored the students' commitment to environmental stewardship and their proactive approach to making a positive impact on their community. The board's decision on the proposed switch to compostable sporks will be crucial in furthering these sustainability efforts.