California, the first state in the United States, has implemented the statewide Universal Meals Program, ensuring free breakfast and lunch for all children every school day. This initiative was introduced in March 2021 by State Sen. Nancy Skinner, D-Berkeley, a long-standing advocate for universal free meals. While several other countries, including Finland (1943), Sweden (1945), India (1995), and Estonia (2002), implemented free lunch programs many years ago, California, followed by Maine and Colorado, has taken a significant step forward.
Research indicates that integrating the free meal program into the education system has yielded positive outcomes. Students have reported improved diet quality, food security, and academic performance. It diminishes the stigma associated with meal assistance, addresses food insecurity issues, fosters educational success, and alleviates administrative burdens.
However, one persistent challenge in the school district is food waste. To address this issue, implementing shared bins and recycling programs is crucial to divert food waste from landfills.
The recycling program is organized into four categories:
1) Liquids such as milk and juice are collected separately in a dedicated bucket. This practice has proven to be highly beneficial, as custodian Chris noted that it significantly reduces the need for multiple layers of can liners to prevent milk leakage from the trash cans.
2) Recyclables include milk cartons, cans, paper, plastic yogurt cups, fruit cups, applesauce cups, and empty cartons.
3) All food waste and food-soiled paper, including peels and cores, and unfinished food such as bread, meat, cheese, pizza, and hamburgers can be composted.
4) Non-recyclable items, like sandwich bags, bar wrappers, plastic-lined food trays, chip and snack bags, condiment packets, utensils, straws, and plastic wraps, should be disposed of in the landfill.
The Green Club and BCK programs have played crucial roles in establishing and maintaining these initiatives.
In conclusion, a comprehensive recycling program and a shared bin for unopened items have been essential to eliminate waste and foster sustainability within the school district.
