Schools

Enatai Wins Lunchtime Garbage Challenge With Less Than Half a Can of Trash in a Day

Enatai Elementary came out on top when 13 Bellevue elementary schools accepted that challenge. Enatai students got their garbage down down to less than half a can in one day for more than 500 students.

Enatai Elementary students are "Green Geniuses," after more than 500 students reduced their lunchroom garbage down to less than half a can in one day, according to the Bellevue School District.

Thirteen Bellevue elementary schools took on the challenge issued by the Bellevue School District and the City of Bellevue. The “Green Genius Cafeteria Challenge” to reduce lunchroom waste, coincided with America Recycles Day on Nov 15, according to the district.

Schools reduced their trash by composting food scraps, recycling, using reusable containers for packed lunches and bringing leftovers home for snacks. 

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1st Place:  Enatai Elementary (514 students) – Enatai generated less than half of a garbage can of trash.  The school launched a campaign to use “ReUsies” reusable baggies and Tupperware to reduce waste.  They also broadcast tips to students, staff, and parents. 

 2nd Place:  Cherry Crest Elementary (620 students) - Cherry Crest filled a trash can three-quarters full.  Their green team promoted the competition with posters, announcements and classroom presentations.  They formed a green ambassador team with representatives from all levels.

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3rd Place:  Medina Elementary (519 students) - Medina filled a trash can three-quarters full.  They recruited a team of students and parents to help in the cafeteria with sorting recycling and composting to make it a community event. 

Together, the 6,700 students and staff members at the 13 participating schools generated a total of just 17 garbage cans of trash on Nov. 15. 

The first-, second- and third-place winners will receive a “Recycle Robot” made from recycled materials and engraved with their school’s name.  All thirteen schools will receive a certificate in a frame made from recycled computer parts.

To read more about the Green Genius Cafeteria Challenge, click here.


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