In a pioneering move towards environmental sustainability, Auburn Riverside has encouraged a new initiative to reduce plastic waste by replacing single use plastic cutlery with durable, eco-friendly alternatives such as metal utensils.
As Auburn Riverside navigates this transition, a significant number of students have voiced their concerns and dissatisfaction regarding the changes being implemented,
“ Freshmen Renata Jimenez said she prefers plastic, “Plastic, because I feel it’s easier for convenience and less pressure for students”;
Renata adds, “and we’re not worried about the cleanliness of the utensils and the extra step of returning forks.
Despite the criticism to this change, Auburn riverside and neighboring school districts have positively reinforced this movement, “I know change is difficult, but moving from plastics to reusable metal utensils is better for the environment” Principle Janalyn Mckeehan said.
Mckeehan said the move to metal also saves the district money ,
“It is cheaper to use the metal utensils, because they can be washed and used time and time again. If they are not returned, the purchase price is relative to the plastic utensils and those cannot be washed and reused”
Senior Diego Arauz addresses his concern with this modification, “if there was ever a school fight, i feel like someone would use a fork against someone and the school could be sued for it”
When considering the re-usage of utensils, Freshman Cadence Chandler also prefers plastic , “I would prefer plastic just because they’re brand new, I feel like since the whole school is using the forks, it’s just kind of unsanitary.”
Junior Maria Mora adds, “I get it for the reduction of plastic use but it feels kind of disgusting.”
