Photo Caption: Poster shows the results of the study performed at Gorham High School on a typical day. Research makes a difference in how we learn, and gives us ideas about how we can do better. (Photo credit: Alicia Sotir)

Students and staff at Village Elementary recently welcomed a group of University of Southern Maine college students who are working on a food waste project for their environmental studies course.

As part of their research, the USM students conducted a hands-on “trash dig,” sorting through our lunch waste to better understand how much food is being thrown away each day. Their goal was to compare different lunch periods and determine which generated the least amount of waste.

The visit turned into a valuable learning experience for the students as well. By seeing the amount of uneaten food firsthand, students were encouraged to reflect on their choices in the cafeteria and practice taking only what they would eat. Teachers and staff used the opportunity to talk with students about the environmental and social impacts of food waste.

This partnership not only supports the USM students’ research but also promotes awareness and responsible habits in the Village school community. Village Elementary students left the cafeteria thinking more carefully about food, learning that small choices can make a big difference for the planet.