A groundbreaking composting and recycling initiative has taken root in Portsmouth's school district, with impressive results reported during the recent School Committee meeting. Eva Tuohy from Waste Not Consulting presented the outcomes of the district-wide program, which has successfully diverted over 46,000 pounds of food scraps and compostable materials from landfills this past year.

The program, implemented across all four school lunchrooms, aimed to educate students, faculty, and lunch providers on proper waste disposal practices. Tuohy highlighted that nearly 2,050 students have been educated about the importance of waste diversion, with schools now utilizing compostable trays—except for the high school, which employs reusable trays due to its dishwashing facilities.

Notably, Melville and Hathaway elementary schools achieved a remarkable 85% diversion rate daily, showcasing the program's effectiveness. The initiative has not only reduced waste but also fostered a uniform waste sorting system across the district, ensuring that students encounter consistent recycling and composting practices as they progress through their education.

Tuohy emphasized the significance of this program in light of Rhode Island's impending landfill closure in 2046, noting that approximately 100,000 tons of food scraps enter landfills annually. The program's success has garnered attention, being recognized as one of the first district-wide efforts of its kind in the state.

As the school year wraps up, the district plans to expand the program further, potentially including younger students and enhancing educational efforts. The initiative stands as a model for sustainability in schools, demonstrating the potential for significant environmental impact through community engagement and education.