[USCC] School Cafeteria Waste

[Tamara Thomas]

Hi Helanna,

            In-school composting is a terrific activity - I've been helping
with King County schools for almost 5 years now and just spoke at WORC's
Annual Conference on the benefits of a "Full Circle" approach.  They've
promised to post the presentations on their website
http://www.compostwashington.org/ but I see they aren't up yet.  Check for
there for my presentation in the next few days.  

 

One system I've worked with is an Earth Tub.  It is manufactured by Green
Mountain Technologies and works great for a school cafeteria - but any
system should be sized for the waste expected. You can perform a Waste
Audit, by setting up a food waste separation and collection program and
measuring the food waste generated.  I always recommend maintaining that
program even if you don't have a system set up yet.  Keep records & watch
your waste generation.  You might be able to reduce the volume with just
awareness.  Try to contract with a hauler to take the foodwaste to a local
composter until your system is in place and fully shaken down.  

 

Washington State Department of Ecology operates 2 Earth Tubs and has put
together a document about Institutional Composting that might also be of
help.  Its available at: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/biblio/0607033.html 

 

            Feel free to contact me off-line to talk about your particular
situation.

 

Best wishes & Happy Composting!

 

Tami

 

Tamara Thomas, P.E.

Terre-SourceLLC

Helping Compost Happen!

360-336-3536 Office

360-336-3530 FAX

425-844-6068 Field

 

 

Hello,

I am working with an elementary school Principal in Beacon, NY to set up a
school-wide compost system.  I am wondering if anyone has any suggestions,
recommendations, or other projects that they can think of where the school
cafeteria waste is composted on site.  We have worm bins in many of the
classes but I am looking for something that can absorb a larger quantity
each day.  Any suggestions would be appreciated!  Thanks.

-Helanna

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