Hi, I don’t have any current research that would help you. You can do what I did, and google “What schools are using reusable lunch trays?” or how to reduce throwaway lunch trays, or how to switch to reusable lunch trays. I just don’t have any current info. Sorry. Let me know what you find.

Hello Diane,

I am a Geography Resource and Environmental Studies major at Texas State University and I am currently working on a project for my Solid Waste Planning and Management course. The project is a proposal to somehow locally reduce waste entering the landfill that can actually be implemented by the recipient. I am extremely interested in reusable versus disposable ware in schools as my proposal topic. Is there any chance you could provide me with some good sources or information of your own, which I could use in combination with the miniscule information I have found about my local school districts? I am struggling to find information about how much money is spent per year on disposable trays by schools as well as information about waste hauling costs. My proposal is essentially to revert back to reusable trays as most schools in my district have used styrofoam for some time. This would ultimately save money and energy according to the studies I have read while at the same time providing an opportunity for environmental education and outreach. Furthermore, I assume the reason for using disposable trays stems from sanitation concerns and convenience, although neither are good excuses to harm the environment. Perhaps you could shed some light, why do schools choose disposable trays? Thank you for your time, your input would be greatly appreciated!

I’ve not seen any reports of this, but that doesn’t mean no one’s doing it. But maybe there could be one that folds in the middle and comes in a little sack that can be easily packed, unpacked and cleaned. Interesting idea!