Kathryn Marchand
EE Staff Writer ‘24
Buzz words like global warming, carbon footprint, and food security have been circulating modern media for years alarming many. Yet, tangible changes in society seem to be lackadaisical. This is not the case at Trumbull High School. Our environmental club, headed by Environmental Science teacher, Mr. Heher and senior Brianna Jackson have introduced composting to the lunchroom.
Composting is a process in which organic waste is broken down into soil amendment or mulch. This simple process helps reduce the amount of food that would end up in landfills or trash incinerators which release greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere. Greenhouse gasses contribute to global warming, which is the rising of the earth’s average temperature disturbing the ways of life of many globally.
“This is really important as food waste as in any waste is detrimental to our environment,” says Senior Brianna Jackson, President of the Environment Club.
This initiative has been carried out by removing the trash cans in the senior lounge and adding composting bins in the back corner.
However, it is not as simple as a switch of cans, not everything can be composted. Fortunately, Trumbull High School students have devoted their lunch period to helping sort through people’s leftovers. Items that can be composted include napkins, lunch trays, fruits, vegetables, meat and starches.
The efforts have been extremely successful. The environmental club has reported that our high school alone has prevented 2,815 pounds of waste, which is equivalent to 590 pounds of carbon dioxide, 30 gallons of gasoline, 35,562 smartphones charged, 369 kWh energy created and 664 miles driven by an average car.
This project is paving the way for a cleaner tomorrow, and Brianna Jackson adds, “It’s crucial that we all do what we can to stop climate change and preserve our home. It’s time for people to start acting like they live here”.