We are a group of 8th grade students at Ephraim Curtis Middle School in Sudbury, Massachusetts who understand that the Earth is becoming increasingly polluted by plastic. The detrimental effects of plastic waste are devastating to see all around us. Whether it's litter on the streets or the damage to marine life due to plastic waste, the impact of this pollution source is undeniable. This concern hits close to home, especially in the Sudbury Public Schools, where students use plastic utensils daily. However, we believe that by switching to biodegradable plastic utensils, our schools can begin to make a significant difference by reducing our community's environmental footprint.

The world produces more than 450 million tons of plastic annually, and a shockingly low nine percent of it is recycled. Most plastic waste ends up in landfills or, worse, in our oceans, taking hundreds of years to decompose. This plastic waste contributes significantly to environmental decline. According to an article published on April 29, 2025 “Lexington’s Harrington Elementary to replace single-use tableware with reusables” by Vanessa Lee, schools around the United States are recognizing their role in this problem and are making incredibly important decisions to switch to more eco-friendly alternatives. We can do the same here in the Sudbury Public Schools.  

Switching to biodegradable utensils in the Sudbury Public Schools will not only be environmental friendly, but also practical. Biodegradable utensils decompose much faster than ordinary plastics, thereby reducing the long-term buildup of waste. These utensils are made from renewable resources like cornstarch or sugarcane. Yet they provide the same functionality of ordinary utensils, without the negative consequences. Successful implementations of environmentally safe utensils in other Massachusetts schools, including Lexington’s Harrington Elementary School and Natick’s Wilson Middle School, have resulted in a significant waste reduction, proving the effectiveness of biodegradable options. In addition, Ephraim Curtis Middle School has begun to implement bioplastic utensils in its cafeteria as a part of a pilot test.

Making the change to biodegradable utensils in all SPS schools will set a positive example for our community and students, in particular, teaching them the importance of sustainability and responsible decision-making. It will embed a sense of pride and responsibility in the student body, knowing they are actively contributing to a healthier community and planet.

We urge the SPS School Committee and the SPS Superintendent to take the initiative on behalf of all of our schools to reduce plastic pollution by transitioning to biodegradable plastic utensils throughout the district. Let us be role models in our district, showcasing the fact that major, positive change begins with us. We hope you will sign this petition to show your support for a  greener, cleaner future for our school, the Sudbury community, and most of all, the Earth.