Reading, Writing, ‘Rithmetic, Recycle?
Prepackaged foods are convenient, especially for lunches on-the-go. However, food packaging generates a significant amount of waste – in the United States, over 2500 tons of non-biodegradable plastic packaging is thrown away each year. Storm drains, rivers and wind carry much of this waste to our oceans where marine animals ingest plastics that mimic food or get tangled in debris. A large amount of wate food packaging comes from school cafeterias. An average American student generates 67 pounds of waste each schoo year!
Viewer Tip: As you send the kids off for the first day of class, the Port Townsend Marine Science Center encourages you to pack a waste-free lunch. Try replacing paper bags, foils and plastic wrap with reusable containers. Buying food items in bulk is a cheaper alternative and prevents additional waste from individually-wrapped foods. Your actions can make a big difference!
This information is provided by the Port Townsend Marine Science Center. Learn more: www.ptmsc.org.
Season: Fall
(Sources: www.wastefreelunches.org; www.algalita.org)