Plastic straws, spoons, and forks—scattered everywhere: on the ground, in the grass, clogging drains, and polluting playgrounds. It’s a daily sight for students across California’s public schools. But it doesn’t have to be this way. We can change it, and we need YOUR help.

We are part of the California branch of the Junior Philanthropists Foundation, the nation’s largest youth-led environmental policy organization. Last legislative session, we helped pass 17 critical environmental bills in California. Now, we’re aiming even higher, pushing for bolder solutions to address the root causes of the environmental crises threatening our future. 

Plastic pollution is a significant issue in California’s schools. Single-use foodware—like trays, utensils, and containers—adds to the 562,442 tons of waste produced annually by educational institutions. Much of this waste takes centuries to degrade, harming wildlife, ecosystems, and breaking down into harmful microplastics that contaminate our water, food, and air.

We propose a statewide ban on single-use plastic foodware in California schools, including plastic trays, utensils, containers, and straws. Schools would transition to reusable or compostable alternatives, fostering a cultural shift toward sustainable practices. This initiative builds on the success of SB 270 (2014), which banned single-use plastic bags, and SB 378 (2021), which banned Styrofoam on state beaches and parks.

To make this happen, we need to eliminate plastic foodware in cafeterias, require schools to use sustainable alternatives, and provide state grants to help schools cover the costs of switching to eco-friendly materials. Schools would have two years for a gradual transition, ensuring they have time and resources to adapt smoothly. Gradual implementation addresses concerns about abrupt changes, allowing for successful compliance.

This approach is proven to work, as similar initiatives have already seen success. In 2018, Seattle Public Schools banned plastic straws and utensils, imposing fines for violations, which significantly reduced plastic waste and led to savings through recycling and composting. In 2019, Berkeley Unified School District launched a reusable foodware pilot program, while the City of Berkeley passed an ordinance restricting single-use plastic foodware and replacing it with compostable alternatives. By 2022, New York City schools had eliminated 850,000 polystyrene trays per day by adopting compostable options following the state's polystyrene foam ban.

We urge California’s education leaders to take a stand against plastic pollution and adopt sustainable practices in schools. Passing this legislation will not only reduce waste but also equip future generations with the knowledge and values needed to protect the environment.

Join us in this fight. Sign the petition to ban single-use plastics in California schools today and help create a cleaner, healthier future for our planet and our children.