BURRILLVILLE – State and local officials gathered this week at Steere Farm Elementary school to recognize students who took part in an initiative that kept 4.9 tons of food waste out of the Johnston landfill, presenting environmental awards to the 138 participants.
Students in grades 2 through 5 volunteered as “Food Waste Rangers” during their lunch period through the Get Food Smart program, which launched at the school in November. By composting food waste and redirecting healthy edible items to hungry students and families, the students reportedly reduced the amount of food wasted at the school by 94 percent.
“Together they are helping to save the planet, one lunch at a time,” said Kendra Gay, a facilitator for the RI School Recycling Project.
The program came to Steere Farm thanks to efforts by district Business Manager Robin Kimatian, who first set up a meeting with the organization. The RI Food Recycling Project has worked with some 52 schools in the state to reduce food waste in a partnership with the RI Resource Recovery Corporation and the Department of Environmental Management.
Sen. Jessica de la Cruz noted she previously visited Steere Farm during lunch to see the program in action, and returned on Monday, June 9 for the awards presentation.
“Everyone was so friendly and respectful to me and everyone around,” de la Cruz said. “You guys have a really special school.”
de la Cruz recalled similar programs – focused then on recycling – during her own elementary school years.
“I know that these assemblies have an impact because they had an impact on me,” she said.
The senator also recognized custodian Pat Beaudreau and the Chartwells food service team for their help implementing the program.
“We’re so appreciative of your efforts,” de la Cruz said.
Deputy Director of Environmental Protection Bureau Susan Forciera noted that in addition to composting, lunches at Steere Farm over the past seven months have featured a “share table,” where edible foods are redirected to those who might be in need. The table reportedly saved 3,697 pounds of food from being wasted.
According to School Recycling Project officials, the effort reduced Steere Farm’s carbon footprint by 9.7 metric tons of C02, the equivalent in greenhouse gas emissions of driving a gasoline powered car 24,702 miles.
“Steere Farm is one of more than 52 ‘food smart’ schools in Rhode Island and this awards assembly highlights the important work the students, staff, faculty, parents and school principals do to address climate change and hunger in our community,’ said project Co-Director Jim Corwin, noting the group plans to expand the program to at least 25 additional schools next year with funding from the Rhode Island Foundation and 11th Hour Racing’s Grant Program. “Together, we are taking real steps to change attitudes and behaviors about food waste and food insecurity.”
