Prince George's County reviews school lunch plastic bag use amid sustainability concerns

On April 23, 2025, the Prince George's County Public Schools Board of Education convened to discuss the Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) and its implications for school nutrition practices, particularly regarding the use of plastic bags. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges and opportunities for improving environmental sustainability within the school system.

A key point of discussion centered on the legacy of practices adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the reliance on plastic bags for food distribution. Board members and students expressed concern over the continued use of these bags, especially in light of the county's ban on plastic bags. The conversation underscored the need for a critical reassessment of current practices to align with environmental goals and public health standards.

One student raised the possibility of transitioning to compostable bags as a solution to both logistical challenges in food service and environmental concerns. However, it was noted that compostable bags had not yet been explored as an option. The discussion revealed that the use of plastic bags was partly due to the need to ensure students received all necessary food groups in a convenient manner. This practice, however, has raised compliance issues with the Maryland Meals for Achievement program, which emphasizes student choice in meal selection.

Director Kirkland emphasized that the ultimate goal is to eliminate the use of bags altogether rather than simply replacing them with compostable alternatives. This aligns with the broader objectives of the CCAP, which aims to reduce plastic waste in schools. The board acknowledged the logistical challenges that may arise from this transition, particularly in communicating changes to school administrators and ensuring that meal service operations remain effective.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of student engagement in advocating for change. Students presented their findings and raised questions about the rationale behind the continued use of plastic bags, demonstrating a proactive approach to environmental issues within their school community.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Board of Education meeting reflect a growing commitment to sustainability in Prince George's County Public Schools. As the school system prepares to phase out plastic bags, the focus will be on effective communication and collaboration with school administrators to ensure a smooth transition. The board's commitment to aligning school practices with climate action goals signals a significant step toward fostering a more environmentally responsible educational environment.