Take the First Step
Teach future generations sustainable habits in the critical years. In the school setting, separating out food scraps, has many benefits beyond waste reduction. It becomes part of the curriculum.
Detailed program implementation examples can be found in our Case Studies.
Utilize a Multi-Step Process of Food Systems Education:
Reduce Waste
By switching to certified compostable paper trays instead of styrofoam and composting food scraps, the school can drastically reduce the amount of trash it produces every week.
Grow Food
Schools can bring the educational compost concepts full circle by building gardens and using the compost to grow food. Learn more about establishing a garden program for your school.
Educate
Black Earth can help educate students on why composting is important and how it works. Backyard Growers also offer education programs for kids on sustainability and waste reduction.
Help Fund Your Program
School Referral Program: Your school earns a $10 credit for every new household that signs up for residential service and enters your school's name at checkout. Credits are applied quarterly to your compost bill or directed to your PTO. We provide custom flyers to help you promote the program!
Online Fundraiser: Promote our products with a custom coupon code and earn a 10% check or credit back on all sales at the end of the year. Credit can be used for products like raised beds or to offset your pickup bill. We provide a ready-to-use flyer.
Additional Opportunities: Interested in receiving donated compost or including our compost in a plant sale? Contact us for more ways to partner or to set up one of the above programs.
School Systems We Service Include:
and many more
Schools In the News for Composting
Burlington, MA: This video is a great introduction to how the Burlington Public Schools are rolling out their compost program.
Melrose, MA: Hear first hand from Melrose High School students how they launched a pilot compost program last year to full implementation, how it's being funded by the Melrose DEP and processed by Black Earth Compost.
Natick, MA: Natick’s Wilson Middle school enriched with cafeteria composting program
Jamestown, RI: Blossoming composting program at Melrose School cutting waste
Compostable Serviceware
We only accept compostable serviceware that is third party certified compostable by BPI or TUV to ensure it breaks down into non-toxic substances within 6 months in a composting facility. There are now many certified and acceptable trays available.
Full list of BPI certified trays: BPI Certified Trays
Learn more about compostable certifications and what's compostable.
Download signage for your zero waste trash stations.
Food Scrap Diversion Curriculum
Free curriculum is available by Let's Go Compost! Enter your contact information in their form to gain access to curriculum for K-8th grade.
For in person, full service curriculum we recommend Change is Simple.
