Goal Update

2021 Baseline: 23%

January 2024 Update: 20%

Goal: 50%

Diversion Rate Over Time

There has been a steady increase in the volume of recyclables diverted from the landfill since 2011. Part of the reason for the plateau around 20% over the past several years is an increase in the annual volume of landfill-bound waste due to a steady increase in size and programs at OPS.

Strategies

Tray Stacking: An emphasis on tray stacking in the cafeteria and the addition of composting at several schools were the primary means by which schools were able to reduce their waste in 2019. Some schools have reduced the volume of material sent to the landfill each month by up to 60% after adding composting and tray stacking. 

Recycling: The District is working to assist schools in establishing and maintaining recycling programs, by assessing service levels, collection processes, containers, signage, and education.

Dumpster Fullness Assessments and Data Tracking: Participation in tray stacking and recycling efforts will help reduce waste going to the landfill dumpster. This means that schools can reduce the number of times their landfill dumpster(s) are picked up. Monitoring dumpster fullness and tracking waste data helps inform these kinds of changes to service levels, which also helps save money!

Composting: Composting is a circular system for diverting food scraps and other organic waste like napkins, paper towels, and compostable lunch trays, which produces a nutrient-rich soil that can then be used for gardens and landscaping. Many schools have composted their cafeteria waste with local vendor Hillside Solutions over the past several years, including Dundee, Washington, Gomez-Heritage, Crestridge, Bancroft, Liberty, Chandler View, Northwest High, Davis Middle, Central Park, and Harrison. For 2023-24, Omaha South Magnet High and Central High (the two largest high schools in the state of Nebraska!) are both initiating compost programs.

 

 

Northwest High School’s cafeteria setup

Our Goals