Turning K-12 ‘Cafeterias into Classrooms’ to Address Food Waste
Students in the Orlando area could soon get more classroom time during their lunchtime, to learn more about ways to fight hunger and food waste. It is estimated 40% of the food produced globally is lost or wasted. The “ Food Waste Warrior ” program of the World Wildlife Fund inspires children to help alleviate local and global food insecurity. It prompts them to think through practical, easy-to-implement solutions, like a “share table,” where food they are not going to eat can be shared with someone else. Alex Nichols-Vinueza, program manager for food loss and waste for the World Wildlife Fund, said the idea is to empower students to have a role in addressing issues in their community. “Around food insecurity, around the environmental impacts of the food system,” Nichols-Vinueza explained. “It’s a way that it’s not controversial; that you can really engage students on some of these issues.” He pointed out they are just starting in Orlando, making connections with school districts...