Our Vision:
BUSD will minimize the generation of waste and achieve an 80% diversion rate by 2025.
56%
2023 Diversion Rate
80%
Goal by 2025
What We Do
Reusable Foodware Project Launches at 3 Schools

Learn more about Berkeley Unified School District’s transition to reusable food ware in this collaborative study with Clean Water Action. This report outlines the initial steps for replacing single-use plastics with durable, sustainable food ware options in 3 of our schools including Cragmont and John Muir Elementary schools and Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School.
Reuse Center Opens
We are excited to announce that a community ReUse Center has opened at Berkeley High School. The ReUse Center will be housed in a 40 ft shipping container, located between the G building and the football field. The space will be stocked with reusable goods that might otherwise end up in the landfill such as books, binders, water bottles, clothing, and more. Student volunteers will ensure the space stays organized, clean, and safe. We’d like to give a big shout-out to the BHS Mural Club for painting the Center! If you are a Berkeley High student and interested in volunteering at the Center please read the volunteer description and reach out to Sofia Peltz at sofiapeltz@berkeley.net.
The Center will be open every Thursday from 2:30 to 4:30 pm. We encourage students and staff throughout the District to donate and take home items. Remember everything in the Center will be FREE!
School Recycling, Compost, and Landfill Collection
Since 2012, Berkeley schools have been recycling and composting to reduce the amount of waste sent to our local landfill. Today, all Berkeley schools have recycling and composting bins on campus. However, we still have work to do!
The Sustainability Program has continued it’s long time partnership with StopWaste and College Corps to educate students on proper waste sorting. If you have any questions about what is considered compostable or recyclable please check out our commonly asked questions page as well as the additional resources linked below.
