Los Al Elementary Schools Recycling Lunch Trays

Foam lunch trays are being recycled at elementary schools throughout the Los Alamitos Unified School District, officials reported.

The district's "Going the Extra Mile," campaign is underway in conjunction with P&R Paper Supply at all six elementary schools to help teach students about sustainability and the importance of recycling. School district officials estimate about 12,500 lunch trays are currently being recycled per month.

“Not only is it an educational opportunity, but the kids feel good about themselves for doing their part to help our environment," Suzanne Morales, the district's director of food services, said. "We are thankful that P&R Paper Supply is providing us with this easy and affordable solution to recycle our foam lunch trays.”

Student helpers assist their fellow students throw extra food from their tray into the trash cans, then they place their trays back in their original shipping boxes next to the trash cans. The trays are picked up by a Nutrition Services delivery driver and taken for recycling. School officials said the recycled material from the foam trays are later used to make picture frames and crown molding.

“This program is innovative and collaborative because it not only gets students involved and thinking about ways to reduce waste from our landfills, but it also educates them about how recycling products, like foam lunch trays, gives them a second chance at life,” Joe Maiberger, Chief Financial Officer of P&R Paper Supply, said. 

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