Minimising food waste across Torfaen

How did learners identify that food waste was an issue?

When carrying out their Environmental Review, as part of the Eco-Schools seven steps, learners identified that food waste was a significant problem in their schools.

Their investigation began by tracking the types of food wasted in the schools, weighing food waste bins, and collecting data.

 

What did you do and how did you get everyone involved?

After visiting a food waste processing facility, students realised that food waste prevention is the most crucial element. 

The Federation eco-committee collaborated with Torfaen County Borough Council to adjust school menus. They aimed to offer more appealing options and eliminate items that frequently went to waste, like replacing mashed potatoes with jacket potatoes.  

Our catering staff now serve meals that are tailored, so everyone can ask for more or less of a particular food. We encourage all learners to fill their bellies and leave empty plates with no waste! They know the correct bin for food waste, how food waste powers electric power stations, and that rotting food in the incorrect bin has a huge impact on climate change and greenhouse gases. 

The initiative has significantly reduced food waste within the schools. This in turn has had a positive effect on our finances as there is less food being purchased that isn’t being consumed and less waste that needs to be collected from the schools. 

How has this initiative impacted on the wider community?

The project has highlighted the importance of this approach to key decision-makers in Torfaen, including catering and education departments. 

It also has demonstrated in several school communities how decisions on what is bought can positively impact multiple areas, including increased pupil consumption, reduced food waste, and lower costs. 

 

What’s next for the Federation eco-committee?

We intend on educating our learners to further reduce our school food waste and build upon our existing success. 

But the eco-committee’s work doesn’t stop with food waste! They are committed to creating change and working with the council to reduce excessive packaging and supply meals that are environmentally sourced.