ADMINISTRATORS & FACULTY NYC PUBLIC SCHOOLS

As an Organics Collection school, you are on the forefront of an exciting moment in NYC history! In the school year, the NYC Department of Education and Department of Sanitation are conducting an Organics Collection program in over 300 school cafeterias and kitchens in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Staten Island schools. IN NYC SCHOOLS

These materials will be turned into compost or renewable energy. For the purpose of this Program, we refer to organics as food scraps like vegetables, meats, grains, cheeses, and fruits soiled paper products like napkins, brown bags, plates, and compostable trays

According to the NYC Department of Sanitation, nearly 30% of all NYC's waste can be composted. In schools, it’s closer to 40% Organic s (30%) NYC Waste Characterization Study

reduce the amount of trash going to landfills reduce export cost of waste generate renewable energy reduce greenhouse gas emissions develop a valuable commodity create local Green Jobs

CAFETERIA SORTING: HOW WILL IT WORK? New stations will be set up in the cafeteria, where students will sort their lunch waste in four different components LIQUIDS RECYCLIN G LANDFIL L ORGANICS

Organic material is picked up nightly by the Department of Sanitation. It is important that the organics bins are free from contaminants like foam and plastic so materials can be properly processed.

Sorting stations create a more organized cafeteria routine. Reduces cleanup for SchoolFood, school aides, and custodial staff by reducing litter. Reduces vermin and pest problems by having food scraps contained in a plastic bin with lid. BENEFITS OF CAFETERIA SORTING

Reinforces classroom recycling practices and contributes to positive, sustainable habits. BENEFITS OF CAFETERIA SORTING Offers opportunity for students to take a leadership and/or mentoring role by educating their peers about the importance of reducing waste.

Organics are taken to commercial facilities, where they are processed and made into compost or renewable energy. It is important that the organics bins are free from contaminants like foam and plastic so the materials can be properly processed.

NYC Parks, School & Community Gardens, Street Trees WHERE DOES THE FINISHED COMPOST GO?

HOW CAN YOU CONTRIBUTE? Coordinate with your Sustainability Coordinator and student Green Team. Volunteer once a week as a cafeteria aide to educate and speak with students. Help train student Cafeteria Monitors. Periodically check on the sorting stations Help host an assembly on the importance of recycling and composting.

Incorporate the process of composting into lesson plans. Take 5 minutes before lunch to remind students of the steps and importance of Cafeteria Sorting. STEP 1STEP 2STEP 3STEP 4

Recycling & Composting Focus Student Council Afterschool Robotics Web-design Green Career Fair

FOR MAKING ORGANICS COLLECTION A THANKS Questions? Comments? For more information contact the DOE Office of Sustainability Or visit: