Reusable Foodware Program Reaches Major Milestone
BUSD’s Reusable Foodware Program has grown from an innovative pilot to a districtwide sustainability success story. As of 2026, nine schools are now using reusable foodware—including stainless steel trays, cups, forks, spoons, and bowls—helping students enjoy school meals with far less waste.
Participating schools include:
- Cragmont Elementary
- John Muir Elementary
- Ruth Acty Elementary
- Thousand Oaks Elementary
- Malcolm X Elementary
- Oxford Elementary
- Willard Middle School
- Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School
- Berkeley Technology Academy
Districtwide Progress
The results represent a significant step toward reducing waste and creating a more sustainable school meal program. From the 2017–2018 school year to 2025–2026, purchases of single-use and plastic foodware declined from 1,365,200 items to 987,560 items—a reduction of 377,640 items, or approximately 28%.
During the same period, BUSD also eliminated plastic utensils districtwide and transitioned all schools to wooden alternatives, further reducing the district’s reliance on plastic.
Looking Ahead
The District will continue to prioritize infrastructure upgrades and pursue funding opportunities to expand reusable foodware to the remaining school sites during the 2026–2027 school year.
Together, students, families, nutrition staff, and school communities are helping BUSD move closer to a low-waste, climate-conscious future.
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!
The Center will be open every Thursday after school. 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 its 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 frequently asked questions page and the additional resources linked below.
